Foods That May Help Fight Oral Cancer

01 May Foods That May Help Fight Oral Cancer

We all know vitamins and minerals are part of a well-rounded, healthy diet. But why eat foods with antioxidants? How exactly does food help when you’re trying to fight oral cancer, or when you’re trying to reduce your risk and avoid it altogether? 

The Oral Cancer Foundation recommends eating foods with antioxidants to combat oral cancer. Antioxidants not only fight cancer-causing free radicals, they also have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits. 

Let’s dig into which foods can help, the right ones to eat, and which ones have the most antioxidants.

Foods Rich in Antioxidants May Combat Oral Cancer 

Researchers have found links between DNA damage from free radicals and the development of cancer, but antioxidants may help prevent this damage. Free radicals (unstable molecules) actually play an important part in our cells’ metabolic process. Our bodies produce them naturally. However, when an excess of free radicals builds up, they can damage your DNA, cell membranes, and cell proteins. 

Antioxidants reduce the number of free radicals in our bodies, so eating foods rich in antioxidants may help prevent oral cancer. In fact, eating the right foods is the best way to get more antioxidants. According to medical trials, taking antioxidant supplements during cancer treatment is not helpful—only whole foods have been found to be beneficial. 

Which Foods Have Antioxidants?

Vitamin C and Vitamin E are both powerful antioxidants, and foods that are rich in these vitamins can help prevent oral cancer. These antioxidants help fight oral cancer by reducing inflammation and protecting your oral tissues against the damage caused by carcinogens.

Vitamin C helps protect cells from damage by neutralizing free radicals, and it also supports the immune system by promoting the production of white blood cells. Vitamin E, on the other hand, stabilizes cell membranes and prevents oxidative stress. 

Foods that are rich in antioxidants include things like berries, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens. Vegetables are a clear winner here. Kale, collard greens, and carrots are also rich in beta-carotene, which may improve immune system responses. A stronger immune system will help anyone battling cancer. 

Cranberries and blueberries are super-performers! They have phytochemicals with anti-cancer potential, according to the National Institutes of Health. These berries are also high in antioxidants and can be enjoyed raw as a snack or mixed into tons of different recipes. 

Antioxidant-Rich Fruits for Preventing Mouth Cancer

Other Foods to Help Fight Oral Cancer 

People who eat a lot of whole grains and fewer refined grains have been associated with a 43% lower risk of oral cancer. What’s the difference between the two? Whole grains still have the bran, germ, and endosperm. Refined grain (flour) is just the endosperm—this means whole grains have more fiber, vitamins, and micronutrients. 

Eating whole foods and cooking with them at home is a wonderful way to take care of your body. Besides whole grains, there are many delicious vegetables, nuts, spices, and even beverages that are full of antioxidants. Pick your favorites as stand-bys, explore new ones from time to time, and enjoy whole foods every day!

Oral Cancer Screenings in Sun Lakes, AZ

The sooner that oral cancer is detected, the better the chances of a successful recovery. Routine dental exams include checking for signs of oral cancer, so keeping up with your twice-a-year appointments is crucial, especially if you’re over 40 or have other risk factors. 

If you need a checkup, come see us at Saba & Chiappetti Dental Associates. We provide complete dental care for adults and seniors in Sun Lakes, and we would be happy to help you.

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (5/1/2025). Photo by Lily Banse on Unsplash