Cancer does not like the Color Green
Audrey J Pellegrino, Med, MHN
The Practical Nutritionist, LLC
177 Littlefield Road
Danbury, NH 03230
603-768-3214
A recent survey by the American Institute for Cancer
Research has declared that diet is second only to smoking for preventable
causes of cancer. That study was
conducted over five years and reviewed by 21 international experts. When you think about that simple statement,
“diet is second only to smoking for preventable causes of cancer”, you begin to
realize how much power we have over our health. It is worth repeating that one
third of the world’s cancers could be avoided with healthy, clean eating.
Our lifestyles can no longer support poor eating and
at the same time provide us with good health.
I know how difficult it is to switch from a Standard American Diet to a
healthy one. (Just think the initials
for standard American diet are S.A.D., coincidence? I think not!) Most people will zealously switch over to a
healthier diet only to be consumed with cravings and then binge eat. To be successful and to support your health
you need to eliminate certain foods, and at the same time introduce other foods,
which will curtail your body’s cravings.
During the month of April, eliminate or drastically
cut back on white sugar and white flour and Think Green! I know the selection in the stores is
limited, and we are all awaiting the fresh spring asparagus and sweet peas, yet
it is important that we eat our greens year round to help prevent cancer. Greens are filled with phytochemicals,
calcium, iron, minerals and lots of fiber, all things which help your body’s
immune, digestive and circulatory systems.
As a child I hated slimy spinach and to eat a dandelion green made me
think of the Beverly Hillbillies. Now I
actually buy dandelion greens. If
prepared properly the flavors of greens are each distinct and very palatable.
For my family I still need to sneak them in where I
can. Smoothies made with a banana,
Tahini and lots of Kale is a great way to get a day’s worth of greens in. Collard sliced thin and put on a sandwich, in
place of lettuce is another way to sneak in a serving of greens. Pureed spinach
put in meatballs or meatloaf does not alter the flavor but does provide a
serving of green vegetables and increases the nutritional value. Almost any soup or stew can have greens added
to them and the greens boost the nutritional value of the soup from very good
to outstanding. Even if you buy a low
sodium soup and then add a handful of Kale you are giving your health a very
important boost. Soups also are easy to
include beans and legumes into which are two defense foods against cancer.
Cancer is a horrible disease that is far too prevalent
in our society. By increasing your
greens, beans, legumes, fruits and vegetables you are boosting your immune
system. A healthy immune system,
combined with exercise, is your best dietary defense against cancer. GO GREEN!