Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and make a yummy addition to any cancer-fighting breakfast. Photo: Simon Doggett
Most people know the benefits of eating a well-balanced breakfast. It can kick start your metabolism, provide the fuel you need to get the day rolling, and help reduce your risk of obesity (one of the main risk factors for breast cancer). However, most don’t realize that breakfast can also be a great opportunity to get a jump start on your cancer prevention routine. Reducing your risk of breast cancer can be delicious and simple with the aid of a few anti-cancer foods like these yummy pancakes.
Zesty Flax Berry Pancakes
- 2 C. whole wheat flour
- ½ C. egg whites
- 2 C. milk
- 2 Tsp. baking powder
- 1 Tsp. salt
- 2 Tbs. canola oil
- 1/3 C. flax seed
- Zest of 1 orange peel
- ½ C. blueberries
Stir together dry ingredients. Add egg whites, milk, oil and orange zest. Stir until dry ingredients are moistened. It’s okay if the batter is lumpy. Cook on preheated griddle until bubbles form and edges are slightly golden. Flip and finish cooking. While pancakes are cooking, mash up blueberries and add a teaspoon of honey or raw sugar for a sweeter syrup. Pour blueberries over pancakes and enjoy!
How These Pancakes Fight Breast Cancer
Blueberries—Contain vitamin C, an antioxidant, as well as many phytochemicals believed to reduce the risk of cancer. Blueberries are also high in dietary fiber, which aids in the digestion and removal of unwanted hormones in the body.
Orange Peel—The peel of the orange contains the highest levels of limonene. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, limonene may have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects.
Canola Oil—According to one study, canola oil “has suppressive effects on cancer growth, and reduces tumorA mass of cells that can be benign or malignant. volumes.”
Flax Seeds—Contain high levels of omega 3 fatty acids. Flaxseed is also a source of lignans, which are compounds that can act as anti-estrogens or weak estrogens. Lignans may also have antioxidant properties, and may slow cell growth, although more research is needed.
Whole Grains—Rich in fiber, a key component that helps to remove excess hormones from the body. Whole grains also contain antioxidants, phenols, lignans, and other phytoestrogens. Using whole grains instead of white flour can also help you lose weight.
For more ideas on how to eat to beat breast cancer, check out our other recipes or our Nutrition/Switch list, the Maurer Foundation list of healthy food substitutions. Do you have a delicious breast cancer beating recipe? Please share in the comments below!