India is a country with vast diversity in clothing, people, religion, and even dietary (food) patterns. The rate of increase in cancer patients is at alarming rate in India; but relatively low as compared to western countries. The cases are rising due to the migration of people from rural to urban regions and lifestyle changes and further advancement of medical sciences. 

Our country tops the charts in oesophageal and oral cancer as compared to lungs and colorectal; which are at a spike in western counterparts. The main reason for oral being the excessive use of tobacco in our country. We as Indians follow our age-old recipes & ingredients which indirectly help in the prevention of deadly diseases like cancer. The use of basic spices and herbs in our cooking is a natural therapy for the prevention of diseases. To exemplify turmeric is added to most of the dishes in our country. It’s just not a coloring spice, it has hundreds of benefits. Nothing in this universe is haphazard, everything is planned. But following certain dietary routines can lower our risk of attaining cancer. Print and online media are full of such instructions, we just need to adapt them in our day-to-day life. 

• CARROTS: Carrots are known for reducing the risk of several types of cancers, especially the stomach. We as Indians have access to carrots throughout the year. Add lots of carrots to your salads, pasta, vegetables, juices, etc. You can enjoy carrot porridge in winter but mind your sugary intake.
• LEGUMES: We have access to a vast variety of legumes like beans, peas, or lentils around the year. These legumes which are rich in proteins and contain several phytochemicals act as cancer warriors inside our bodies. Having these in our meals lowers the risk of colon and stomach cancer.
• BROCCOLI: Broccoli has attained much fame for its benefits in India recently, Earlier it was considered a fancy vegetable for pasta eaters. Consuming it regularly lowers the risk of the reproduction of cancer cells in one’s body.
• LEAFY VEGETABLES: Leafy vegetables like kale, spinach, and mustard green are to be consumed on regular basis. Just make use to wash them properly as they are full of sand. They even are good for our stomach clearance.
• BERRIES: Berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries can help in the wear and tear of cells in our bodies. They also help in the repair of these cells. Just add these to your fruit routine to avoid this deadly disease.
• CINNAMON: The smell of cinnamon rolls and their taste can drive anyone crazy. The aroma and benefits of this spice have been known for ages in our country. They are known to have anti-cancer properties and help in the reduction of tumor cells. You can add them to your vegetables, pulses, or tea. 
• FLAXSEEDS: The world is going crazy for these seeds; which are part of Indian kitchens for ages. They are rich in Omega 3 and boost our immune system. They are known for reducing the risk of skin, lung, and breast cancer.
• TURMERIC: Turmeric is a name that has gained much fame during this pandemic. Every household delicacy, this herb is known for fighting cancer cells.
• TOMATOES: Tomatoes are part of every household curry, delicious soups, and eaten raw as salad. These tomatoes have antioxidant properties and protect our bodies against UV rays also. 

Just incorporate these eating habits in your meal plans and help in the prevention of cancer.

Written by: Ruchi Mehta
Health Blogger