Cancer prevention: These minerals and vitamins have cancer-fighting power

Cancer is one of the most common non-communicable diseases that claims millions of lives worldwide annually. Health experts and agencies have always urged people to identify the early symptoms of the disease for prompt diagnosis and treatment. People are also advised to follow cancer preventive measures like having healthy food, following a lifestyle devoid of smoking and drinking alcohol, etc. In this article, we will discuss the different minerals and vitamins that have the potential to prevent cancerous growth in the body.

These vitamins are antioxidants that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to the development of cancer. Vitamin C and E have the potential to inhibit mutagenesis and carcinogenesis. They are known to stop cancerous cell growth and carcinogen-induced DNA damage. Foods rich in these vitamins include fruits (citrus fruits, berries), vegetables (carrots, spinach, broccoli), and nuts.

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Vitamin D is important for maintaining strong bones and a healthy immune system. Some studies suggest that adequate vitamin D levels might be linked to a reduced risk of certain cancers. Several studies have worked to find a link between vitamin D and its role in prevention. People who regularly took vitamin D3 supplements had a lower risk of developing melanoma, colorectal cancer and breast cancer studies have found. Natural sources of vitamin D include sunlight exposure, fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), and fortified foods.

Vitamin K is known for its role in blood clotting, but emerging research also suggests it may have anti-cancer properties. There are study based evidence that treatment with vitamin K can inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Green leafy vegetables, such as kale and spinach, are good sources of vitamin K.

Selenium is a trace mineral that acts as an antioxidant and is involved in DNA repair. A review of 13 studies, in Cochrane, has found 31% reduced risk of cancer and 45% reduced risk of deaths from cancer in the groups with the highest selenium intakes. It's found in foods like Brazil nuts, seafood, and whole grains.

Zinc is essential for immune function and cell growth. While research on its direct cancer-fighting properties is limited, maintaining adequate zinc levels is important for overall health. Zinc also has a protective effect on cancer considering its role in regulating oxidative stress. However, taking higher doses of zinc can put one at the risk of developing prostate cancer. Foods like meat, legumes, and nuts provide zinc.

Various B vitamins, such as B6, B12, and niacin (B3), play roles in cell metabolism and DNA repair. They can be found in a wide range of foods, including lean meats, fish, whole grains, and legumes. Folate is necessary for cell division and DNA synthesis. It's found in leafy greens, legumes, and fortified grains. Adequate folate intake is important for preventing certain types of cancer, such as colorectal cancer.

Magnesium is involved in hundreds of biochemical reactions in the body and is crucial for maintaining overall health. In animal studies, researchers have found that magnesium has an adverse effect on cancerous growth. The mineral is abundantly found in nuts, seeds, whole grains, and leafy greens.

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