Everything About Oral Cancer Prevention and Care with Diet

Oral cancer is one of the serious disease conditions that affect several individuals nationwide and globally. The cancer that develops in any part of the mouth is termed oral cancer. India has about one-third of the cases of oral cancer on the globe. Lips, tongue, under the tongue, or any other part of the mouth may get affected due to oral cancer. The disease condition may not be perceptible in the early stages. A persistent sore or strange growth in the mouth, loose teeth, sudden bleeding in the mouth, numbness in the mouth, red or white-coloured lesions, ear pain without hearing loss, or a sensation that something is stuck up in the back of the throat are the common symptoms of oral cancer. Early diagnosis is crucial for treating this life-threatening condition. So, April is observed as Oral Cancer Awareness Month globally to spread awareness about the risk factors, early detection, prevention, and treatment of oral cancer. Fortunately, certain prevention measures may help prevent or lower the risk of the condition. Check out all about preventive care for oral cancer

Best, Helpful Tips to Avoid the Risk of Oral Cancer

Following certain diet and lifestyle measures can lower or prevent oral cancer. Find them below.

1. Avoid Excessive Intake of Alcohol

A marked number of cancer cases are linked to excessive intake of alcohol. So, limit or avoid alcohol consumption. It can help ensure your better oral health.

2. Say No to Tobacco and Smoking

The majority of oral cancer patients are found to be tobacco users. Smoking or the use of tobacco products and alcohol drinking increases one’s risk of developing mouth cancer. The use of tobacco has been found to have been linked to various other diseases, including cancer of the lung, stomach, and throat, COPD, and type 2 diabetes. So, if you are in the habit of smoking, work on quitting smoking.

3. Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Periodontal disease can increase your risk of oral cancer to some extent. So, care for your teeth and gums. Practice brushing and flossing habits. Brush your teeth twice daily for two or more minutes; brush your tongue too. Use softer toothbrushes. Floss daily gently to prevent gum disease. Drink ample water daily. Also, go for dental check-ups twice a year. These healthy habits can help keep oral cancer at bay.

4. Include Healthy, Cancer-Fighting Foods in Your Diet

Following a diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits can safeguard you from oral cancer. A plant-based diet limiting the intake of meat, particularly processed meat is beneficial. A marked number of mouth cancer cases result due to poor diet. Incorporating nutrient-dense foods in your regular meals can help prevent or fight the condition effectively. Here’s a quick rundown of foods to include in your regular diet.

(i) Berries

Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, berries are healthy foods to prevent or fight oral cancer. Berries also contain ellagic acid, which is an oral cancer-fighting component. The phytonutrient is effective in slowing down the growth of cancer cells and promoting good liver health. Blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries, among others, are the ones to go for. You may include them in your breakfast by adding berries to your yoghurt or oatmeal and savour nutrient-dense delicacies.

(ii) Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables are nutritious additions to the diet to prevent oral cancer. Glucosinolates, the naturally occurring chemicals, in these vegetables are converted into cancer-fighting compounds. Eating these vegetables is effective in slowing down the growth of cancer cells and preventing the development of cancer. So, include broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage in your regular diet.

(iii) Fish

Add foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D to your diet to prevent periodontal disease and cancer. Both these crucial nutrients are present in seafood. So, you can include fish, such as tuna and salmon, in your diet.

(iv) Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil is effective in killing cancer cells. So, it is an excellent choice to prevent the risk of oral cancer. Moreover, olive oil not only combats cancer but also minimizes the risk of osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and stroke. It also helps slow down ageing. So, include this healthy oil in your cooking preparations.

(v) Citrus Fruits

Individuals who have an adequate intake of vitamin C are at a lower risk of developing oral cancer. Vitamin C occurs naturally in citrus fruits. Eating these nutrient-dense fruits offers you cancer-fighting benefits. So, enrich your diet with fresh oranges, grapefruits, sweet lime, and lemon. Eat citrus fruits in moderation, and wait 30 minutes after consuming them to avoid enamel damage. Citrus fruits also help neutralize bad breath and food odours.

(vi) Avocados

The intake of avocadoes can help prohibit the growth of cancer cells in your throat, mouth, and tongue. Dark-hued fruits are effective in warding off cancer. So, incorporate them into your diet.

(vii) Carrots

Rich in vitamin A and antioxidants, raw carrots are powerful foods to beat cancer. Beta carotene content in carrots boosts your body’s immunity. It also helps destroy cancerous cells. So, make it a habit to munch on fresh, raw carrots daily.

(viii) Green Tea

Drinking more green tea can also help combat cancer. It contains powerful antioxidants known as catechins. The antioxidant-rich tea boosts defence mechanisms to help safeguard us against throat and mouth cancer. Having green tea daily can help prevent the development of oral cancer.

(ix) Tomatoes

The lycopene content in tomatoes and watermelons helps eliminate free radicals in your body. It also helps inhibit the development of oral cancer cells. Tomatoes also supply your body with vitamins A, E, and C which help neutralize free radicals responsible for cancer. So, add tomatoes to your diet. The more fruits you add to your diet, the less the risk of cancer.

Now that you know which healthy dietary and lifestyle habits can help lower or prevent the risk of oral cancer, inculcate them in your routine. Let’s spread the word about these preventive measures and care this Oral Cancer Awareness Month so that a maximum number of people can benefit from it. The precious guidance of certified nutritionists, such as health experts at Health Total, can help you receive a personalized diet for alleviating the risk of oral cancer. Our diet plan not only helps minimize the risk of cancer but also eliminates all nutritional deficiencies, manages weight, and boosts immunity. So, waste no time, reach out to us at Health Total and stay in the pink of health with our customized diet plan.

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