Cervical cancer is third most common cancer in the world and it kills nearly 200,000 women a year. January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and even though we’re reducing the number of new diagnoses in the U.S. by nearly 2% a year, cervical cancer is still a very scary and very deadly disease. We can do our part to help keep all cancers at bay by avoiding cigarettes, exercising regularly, getting regular physicals, and eating the right foods. And as part of that, I urge you to stock up on a few of my favorite cancer-fighting foods.

Ginger
Preliminary studies on cancer cells have shown that ginger causes the cells to basically digest themselves without damaging any surrounding cells. Grate some fresh ginger into your favorite soup or smoothie, but avoid sugar-laden choices like ginger ale or gingerbread cookies.

Sweet Potatoes
Beta-carotene, which is found in red and orange fruits and vegetables, is thought to protect the body’s cells from cancer causing chemicals. Try this delicious Cilantro-Lime Sweet Potato Slaw recipe! Not a fan of sweet potatoes? Carrots and pumpkins are both also packed with beta-carotene, too.

Green Tea
Both green and black tea are packed with polyphenols, which are antioxidants that are believed to help stop cancer cells from dividing and multiplying, but green tea packs in more than black. Sipping tea without sweetener is best, but if you must sweeten your tea, try using a minimally processed sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Beans
These cheap, high-fiber, high-protein superstars also act as knights to protect our bodies cells. Packed with phytochemicals, beans may help slow tumor growth by protecting our healthy cells from being invaded by cancerous cells. Try replacing a meat dish once or twice a week with beans to save your cells and save some cash.

Wild Blueberries
Most dark-skinned fruits (strawberries, grapes, etc.) have antioxidants that help block the body from free radicals, but wild blueberries specifically have been shown to have the greatest affect. Most major supermarkets carry the small, naturally-sweet berries. Make sure to check the frozen foods aisle next time you are at the grocery store.

What’s your favorite cancer-fighting food?