Lung cancer is a condition in which cells in the lungs multiply uncontrollably. It starts in the lungs but may spread to the lymph nodes and other organs in the body. The main causes of this disease are smoking and exposure to certain toxins but individuals with a family history of lung cancer are at a high risk of developing it, even if they may not be exposed to other risk factors.

If you smoke or have a family history of lung cancer and are looking for ways to keep this condition at bay, then consuming a balanced diet and following healthy lifestyle habits can go a long way in helping prevent it. In addition to working out every day and avoiding smoking, you should eat a healthy diet that consists of foods that help prevent lung cancer. Listed below are some plant-based foods that are great for preventing lung cancer and promoting general well-being.

• Apples: This super-fruit is a rich source of compounds such as flavonoids, flavonols, flavones, and flavanones that help prevent lung cancer and also reduce the risk of smoke-related cancer. The entire apple, including its skin, is loaded with these compounds and it is extremely beneficial.
• Garlic: According to research studies, eating raw garlic reduces the risk of lung cancer significantly. Garlic contains a beneficial compound called diallyl sulfide but the effect of this is reduced when garlic is cooked or pickled. Raw garlic is one of the most effective plant-based foods that help prevent lung cancer.
• Red bell peppers: Red bell peppers and red chili peppers contain a chemical called capsaicin that reportedly prevents the development of lung cancer. Capsaicin eliminates abnormal cells from the body before they can divide and become cancerous.
• Broccoli: When it comes to foods that help prevent lung cancer, this food item is believed to be quite effective. Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables contain compounds such as glucosinates that help reduce the risk of lung cancer. If you don’t like broccoli, you can opt for other options such as cauliflower, radish, kale, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, wasabi, turnips, watercress, and arugula.
• Spinach: This green leafy vegetable is one of the most nutrient-rich foods that help prevent lung cancer. The results of a study done on former smokers suggested that the presence of the folate vitamin in spinach helped alleviate the risk of lung cancer in them. It also contains a vital cancer-fighting compound called lutein that has antioxidant properties.
• Onions: Onions contain a compound called quercetin that exhibits antioxidant properties and checks the multiplication of harmful cells in the lungs and other organs. You can eat onions raw or add them to soups, casseroles, and other recipes.
• Berries: Berries such as cranberries, blackberries, raspberries and blueberries contain compounds called anthocyanidins that help fight lung cancer. Studies have shown that these compounds inhibit the growth of tumors and also check the formation of blood clots.

These are some of the most popular and effective plant-based foods that help prevent lung cancer. Apart from these, you can also include turmeric, beans, nuts, green tea, carrots, flaxseed, ginger, citrus fruits, tomatoes, and wheat germ to your diet.