Discover the fruits found in Thailand that help combat cancer
Many fruits possess properties that can potentially combat cancer cells, offering not just health benefits but also affordability and availability, especially in Thailand. With a rich variety of fruits capable of fighting cancer, it’s essential to explore how they can be effectively incorporated into daily diets.
Cancer, one of the most dangerous diseases, is closely linked to diet. Studies have suggested that incorporating fruits rich in antioxidants, fibre, and phytochemicals may help reduce the risk of cancer. Here are seven fruits considered formidable enemies of cancer cells.
Grapes, particularly purple and black varieties, are rich in resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant compound. This substance protects cells from damage and reduces the risk of inflammation and various cancers. The grape skin contains anthocyanins, another type of antioxidant that helps prevent cancer cell growth, notably effective against breast, liver, and lung cancers.
Guava, a popular fruit often overlooked for its cancer-fighting properties, contains more vitamins than oranges or lemons. Red guava, in particular, is packed with lycopene, which not only protects cells from damage but also promotes the self-destruction of cancer cells. The high vitamin C content in guava aids in combating inflammation, bolstering the immune system, and creating a natural barrier against cancer-causing agents.
Bananas are high in fibre and antioxidants like dopamine and catechin. These elements protect cells and reduce inflammation, a precursor to cancer cell development. Bananas are a widely favoured fruit, easy to digest, and available at affordable prices in local markets.
Pineapple is known for bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Bromelain disrupts the protein structures within cancer cells, impeding their growth. Rich in vitamin C, pineapples boost immunity and protect the body from harmful substances and infections leading to cancer.
Papaya is abundant in beta-carotene and the enzyme papain. Beta-carotene, a potent antioxidant, shields cells from free radical damage, while papain can destroy abnormal cells and prevent cancer cell growth. Papayas are also rich in vitamin C, contributing to a stronger immune system and fighting off cancer cells and other pathogens.
Oranges, as part of the citrus fruit family, are recognised for their ability to prevent the spread and development of cancer cells to some extent. Regular consumption of oranges, loaded with vitamin C and flavonoids, helps prevent cell damage and strengthen the immune system. Flavonoids have shown effectiveness against stomach, intestinal, nasal cavity, and lung cancers.
Apples are synonymous with health benefits, boasting high levels of fibre, flavonoids, and polyphenols—potent antioxidants. Flavonoids specifically inhibit the growth of cancer cells, particularly in the colon. Polyphenols in apples protect DNA from damage, maintaining cellular health, reported Sanook.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Luke Coutinho highlights guava as a powerful yet underrated fruit, emphasising its high vitamin C content, antioxidant properties, and benefits for immunity, skin health, and cancer recovery in everyday diets. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news.
Why are grapes particularly effective against certain types of cancer?
Grapes contain resveratrol and anthocyanins, antioxidants that protect cells and inhibit cancer growth, especially in breast, liver, and lung cancers.
How does bromelain in pineapple specifically target cancer cells?
Bromelain disrupts cancer cell protein structures, hindering their growth, while boosting immunity with its vitamin C content.
What if we incorporate more guava into our diets?
Including guava, rich in lycopene and vitamin C, may enhance immune defence, reduce inflammation, and promote cancer cell self-destruction.
How do papaya’s components contribute to cancer prevention?
Papaya contains beta-carotene and papain, antioxidants that protect cells from damage and inhibit cancer cell growth.
What role do flavonoids in apples play in cancer prevention?
Flavonoids in apples inhibit cancer cell growth, particularly in the colon, while polyphenols protect DNA from damage.
