In light of national breast cancer awareness month, I was inspired by Everyday Health to share with you the top 10 cancer fighting foods! Alongside five or more servings of fruits and veggies per day and managing portion control, these super foods can actually aid in protecting you from the big C.

Garlic: Add garlic to your eggs, veggies, salads, pizza, and meats to prevent cancer in your digestive organs like your esophagus, stomach, and colon. This flavorful bulb may impair other cancer-producing substances from working or multiplying.

Berries: Indulge in a berry-smoothie, add them to your peanutbutter and jelly sandwhiches, or even better, put them on top of your greek yogurt. These fruits contain specifically strong antioxidants, reducing the amount of damaging free radicals produced in the body and preventing cancer cells from growing in size or multiplying in quantity.

Cruciferous vegetables: When your mom demanded you to eat your vegetables, she was on to something. Vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower specifically can also help diminish free radicals in your body that damage your cell DNA, and, in turn, protect your body from cancerous chemicals and slow down tumor growth. Add them to your salads, casseroles, or dip them in protein-filled hummus.

Green Tea: This antioxidant- rich drink can also slow down tumor growth and fight free radicals that cause cell damage. Try to aim for 2 cups a day!

Ginger: The spicy root may help prevent and treat ovarian cancer, according to recent studies. Look for store-bought soups with ginger or make a ginger soup at home! See our recipe HERE.

Whole grains: The fiber and antioxidants found in whole grains might lower your risk for colorectal cancer. Add oatmeal to your breakfast menu, trade in white sandwich bread and pasta for whole- wheat, and serve dinner with brown rice!

Tumeric: Add some spice to your meals and protect yourself against certain types of cancer cells and reduce tumor growth! Chicken curry, anyone?

Beans: Add some pinto or kidney beans to your salads and soups to fight cancer with their high levels of antioxidants and fiber.

Leafy greens: Add spinach to your scramble, side your sandwich with a leafy salad, or cook kale as a side dish. They carry the antioxidants beta-carotene and lutein, which can limit the growth of cancer cells.

Grapes: Have that glass of wine! Grape skins carry the antioxidant resveratrol, which may prevent cancer and reduce it from spreading.

 For more information, please visit the Everyday Health Website.

-Emily Freeman