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Diet for Ovarian Cancer



As such, there are no known natural remedies for ovarian cancer. However, a healthy diet can help lower the risk of ovarian cancer.

A diet for the prevention and management of ovarian cancer should include a high proportion of fruits and vegetables. Foods rich in lycopene and carotene like carrots and tomatoes may help reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer. Other foods that are beneficial are:

• Foods Containing the Isoflavone Genistein: This isoflavone may inhibit the growth of cancer cells
• Ginger: In laboratory studies, ginger powder was dissolved in a solution and put on ovarian cancer cell structures. Ginger killed the cancer cells through a process of self-destruction known as apoptosis and through a process of autophagy, in which cells digest themselves. These results have not however been replicated on tests with humans.
• Vitamin D: Several recent studies show that vitamin D can help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. There is some controversy regarding these findings but it is a promising area that needs further investigation.
• Tea: Studies suggest that the antioxidants in tea can help protect against cancer. Women who drink two or more cups of tea every day may reduce their risk of ovarian cancer by almost 50%. Both green and black teas are rich in polyphenols, a type of antioxidant which helps protect the body against the damaging effect of free radicals that may cause cancer.

Foods that increase the risk of ovarian cancer are:

• Milk and Dairy Products: In an extensive study of over 60,000 women over a 13 year period, Swedish researchers have found that those who had at least four servings of dairy products daily were twice as likely to develop serous epithelial cancer compared to those who consumed less than two servings of dairy products daily.
• Processed Meats: The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition states that women who eat a lot of processed meat like bacon and salami run a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Exercise can also play a role in lowering the risk of ovarian cancer. Exercise can lower the risk of obesity and can enhance the immune system. Too much exercise however is bad as it can suppress the immune system.