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Getting a little confused by the hype on ‘superfoods’ in the media? Every other day advertisements try to convince us that, for our health, we need to invest in expensive products we’ve never heard of, and probably can’t afford. If you couldn’t care less about kaipen and can’t tell the difference between a goji berry and a strawberry, take heart. Some of the healthiest anti-cancer foods are already in your fridge

Red, red wine

You might not need an excuse to open up that bottle of red wine, but it doesn’t hurt to know how much good it’s doing your health. Besides its well touted heart-protective properties, red wine also has compounds that reduce the risk of certain cancers, lower blood pressure, and can even help in weight loss. A 2009 study by scientists at the University of Queensland found that drinking a little – a glass or two, not a bottle – red wine can prevent damage to cells because of wine’s complex cocktail of useful substances. Overindulging, though, will do a lot of damage to your body. Moderation is key.

Eat your greens

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It turns out your mum was right in telling you to eat your greens. Green vegetables, particularly cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, are not only packed with vitamins and fibre, they’re also full of powerful anti-cancer substances. ITCs, which our bodies make from substances in broccoli, stop enzymes that promote cancer growth, eliminate potential cancer-causing substances from the body, and kill cells that could potentially turn cancerous.

A carrot a day…

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Falcarinol, a natural pesticide and fungicide in carrots, helps prevent the growth of tumours. Dr Kirsten Brandt of Newcastle University’s School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development led the study, concluding that everyone should eat a carrot a day to prevent cancer, and go organic if possible. They study used raw carrots, so whether you’ll still get the anti-cancer benefits eating cooked carrots or carrot juice is uncertain. To stay on the safe side, it’s best you chomp on that carrot in its raw, natural state.

The good news is you don’t need to go any further than your supermarket to get your fill of anti-cancer foods. As long as you’re getting your five a day, you’ll be exposing your body to a range of powerful substances that will help keep your body fighting fit.

Tags: eating healthy, red wine