Cancer is a disease caused by the multiplication and division of damaged genes. These DNA changes can occur due to a family history of certain cancers or via exposure to a cancer causing substance (i.e., chemicals in tobacco smoke). While cancer cannot always be avoided, there are genetic and environmental factors that can affect your cancer risk. For instance, certain foods may help to lower your risk of cancer development:

1. Fatty fish
There are many studies that show that fatty fish can be beneficial for your health. Salmon, rainbow trout and tuna are some of the fatty fish that you can try. Vitamin D and omega 3 fatty acids are some of the nutrients with fatty fish that can help protect you from cancer. There has been a link established between fish and cancer, in that individuals who consume these fish are less likely to develop kidney cancer

2. Legumes
Legumes are from a family of plants that produce seeds. These foods have been shown to decrease the risk of several forms of cancer, including prostate cancer, colon cancer and stomach cancer. The high fiber content of these foods can help protect you from cancer. Fiber from legumes such as peanuts, chickpeas, beans, peas, and lentils may help eliminate waste. Scientific experts believe that fiber may help get rid of the cancer-causing chemicals inside of the body

3. Walnuts
Just about any type of nut can lower your risk of cancer. However, walnuts in particular have been shown to be especially helpful for cancer prevention. They contain a substance known as pedunculagin, which can help lower the chances of breast cancer. In fact, one study monitored the effects of walnut oil on a group of participants and the results of the study showed that the walnut oil helped activate tumor suppressing genes

4. Berries
Berries are classified as little nutritional powerhouses. They are high in vitamin C and fiber. They are also filled with antioxidants that can help fight cancer and neutralize the effects of free radicals. Dark berries (i.e., blueberries, blackberries, cherries, and strawberries) can also be helpful for patients who are already going through cancer treatments. They can help fight something called “chemo brain”, which causes patients to have trouble memorizing things and concentrating due to the effects of chemotherapy

5. Cruciferous vegetables
You are probably aware of the fact that vegetables are one of the healthiest types of food that you can eat. However, cruciferous vegetables are even better for lowering your risk of cancer. This includes veggies such as broccoli, wasabi, collard greens, spinach, kale and horseradish. There are several ways that these vegetables can help protect you from cancer. Firstly, they can help inactivate the cancer-causing agents in your body, which are known as carcinogens. Secondly, they can also reduce inflammation. Studies have shown that people who have higher levels of inflammation in their body are more likely to develop cancer

Science has come a long way when it comes to cancer treatments. For instance, while doctors used to prescribe a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, there are now advanced cancer treatments for certain cancers, such as thyroid cancer treatments like Gavreto. Doctors also often refer patients with liver cancer to the best HCC liver cancer treatment centers. Additionally, there are cancer support groups for families online. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, talk to your health care provider about the many resources available to you.