Eating Orange, Yellow, and Green Veggies Could Lower Your Breast Cancer Risk, Study Suggests
We’ve been taught from day one that vegetables keep us healthy. But new research shows that three specific colors of vegetables might be particularly beneficial when it comes to reducing the risk of breast cancer.
The July 2018 study published in the International Journal of Cancer analyzed diet questionnaires submitted every four years by participants of the Nurses’ Health Study, which included data from more than 180,000 women. After researchers studied the data, they found that women who ate more than 5.5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day had an 11 percent lower risk of breast cancer when compared to those who only ate 2.5 or fewer servings.
Specifically, researchers pointed out that cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli) and yellow and orange vegetables had an especially strong link with a lower risk of breast cancer.
“Although prior studies have suggested an association, they have been limited in power, particularly for specific fruits and vegetables and aggressive subtypes of breast cancer,” said study author Maryam Farvid, PhD, in a press release. “This research provides the most complete picture of the importance of consuming high amounts of fruit and vegetables for breast cancer prevention.”
In the past, these researchers had linked a lower risk of breast cancer with high-fiber intake. However, they said the benefits of fruits and vegetables actually appeared to be independent from their fiber content. This suggests that the antioxidants and other micronutrients present in these specific foods may offer a huge helping hand as well.
If you feel the sudden urge to add more color to your grocery list now, we don’t blame you! Here are a few produce possibilities that may inspire you:
Cruciferous Vegetables
- Brussels sprouts
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Arugula
Yellow and Orange Vegetables
- Yellow beets
- Yellow potatoes
- Sweet corn
- Carrots
- Sweet potatoes
Next, learn about the tasty superfoods that can help you live longer in the video below:
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