Although brain cancer cannot be prevented, there are many ways to reduce the risk of developing it. One of the best ways to reduce the risk is to incorporate a variety of super foods into your diet- most importantly, berries.
Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are rich in antioxidants, which go hand in hand with protection against cancer. Specifically, an antioxidant called pterostilbene, which is found in blueberries in high quantities, has cancer fighting properties. Anthocyanins, an antioxidant found in blue, purple, and red berries, helps to protect the brain from not only cancer, but also aging and other DNA damage.
In addition to providing antioxidants, berries also provide many other vitamins and minerals that can be useful in helping to reduce brain cancer risks. Berries are full of vitamin c, manganese, vitamin k1, copper, and folate. It is estimated that a 3.5 ounce serving of blackberries contain 35% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin c, 32% of the recommended daily intake of manganese, 25% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin k1, 8% of the recommended daily intake of copper, and 6% of the recommended daily intake of folate.
Berries are also known to help fight inflammation. There is a correlation between abnormal inflammation and malignant brain tumors, as well as other health complications. Berries possess strong anti-inflammatory properties, which is also thought to help reduce the risk of brain cancer.
The next time you think about your brain health, think about incorporating more berries in your diet.
A Blast with Berries
Thinking about ways to incorporate more berries in your diet? Take a look at this fruit and yogurt smoothie recipe full of nutrients to keep you full and healthy!
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup nonfat plain yogurt
- ½ cup 100% pure fruit juice
- 1 ½ cups (6 ½ ounces) frozen berries
Directions:
- Put yogurt and juice in the blender, then blend until smooth. Once smooth, add in the berries and run the blender until the smoothie is at your ideal consistency.
- Empty smoothie into a glass, grab a straw, and enjoy!