A healthy diet can reduce breast cancer, or any other cancer risk, by 50 % according to studies carried out so far. A diet rich in these foods are not costly. It should however be accompanied by regular exercise, at least three times per week.

lexpress.mu has drafted a list of these foods which are easily available in Mauritius. Fruits and vegetables not appearing on this list should nevertheless not be shunned, as many fruits and vegetables which are not used against breast cancer are very important in the prevention of other types of cancer, such as pumpkin (giraumon) which is recommended for the prevention of prostate cancer.

Olive oil, to be taken uncooked, in salads, chutneys and achars. Polyphenols contained in that oil has the known capacity to neutralise breast cancer tumors. They also act on bilary acid and help to reduce  gastric cancer, or carcinoma. But one should consume only first cold pressed olive oil.

Garlic, onion and leek. They all contain allicin which usually cleanse the liver.

Edible algae. Seaweeds are part and parcel of Japanese diet, eaten almost every day. Breast cancer in that country is almost non-existent. These algae are available in some supermarkets and at Port-Louis Chinatown in the form of nori sheets, and sold under under the name of Noree. They are usually used to wrap sushi rice, and are excellent on the prevention of breast and prostate cancer.
http://www.doctoroz.com/blog/mao-shing-ni-lac-dom-phd/seaweed-miracle-vegetable-sea.

Brown rice, which is a very potent protease inhibitor retards the onset of cancer. Studies have shown that husk contained in whole rice can inhibit many types of cancer, including breast, prostate and colon cancer.

Egg fruit. As all purple or violet coloured fruit and vegetables, egg fruit, known as “bringelle” in Mauritius is known to contain some anti-cancer substances. They prevent cell mutation.

Citrus fruits. They all contain high level of vitamin C and are potent anti-oxidants. They boost the immune system.

Cabbages.  Broccoli,   cauliflower, radishes and water cress are strong anti-tumor vegetables. They fight free radicals and protect the body against cancer.

Red fruits. Strawberries, red guava and pomegranate are some of the red fruits recommended against cancer.
Dried fruits, such as peanuts, almonds, pistachios, walnuts, sunflower seeds etc., are rich in vitamins B and E as well as minerals. Regular consumption of these dried fruits prevents cancer. They are all easily available in Mauritius.

Dried beans. Lentils, chickpeas, peas, and beans are known to contain protease inhibitors which prevent breast and colon cancer.

Melon. This fruit contain beta carotene and keeps cancer at bay.

Honey is usually used to boost the immune system of cancer patients under chemotherapy.

Fishes. Oily fish, such as tuna, bonito, mackerel, etc. , will slow down the development  of cancerous tumours.
Chilies, whatever be their colour –green, yellow or red – contain capsicum, which blocks cancer causing substances found in meat and smoked fish.

Apples contain quercetin, catechin and epicaticine which are known barriers against cancer cells.

Beetroot. This violet coloured vegetable contains betacynine and diindolylmethane (DIM) which are powerful anti-tumour agents.