Most skin cancers can be treated successfully if diagnosed early. Effective treatment alternatives include cryotherapy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and excision. Oncology research studies have found that nutrition also plays a crucial role in preventing skin cancer and, in some cases, reducing the severity of its symptoms. Certain nutrient-rich foods can enable patients to build up their defenses against this condition. Here are some such incredible foods to add to the meal plan.

Black tea
Tea is rich in active compounds known as polyphenols, which have distinct anti-cancer effects. They can remove cancer cells by inhibiting cell cycle events, modify signaling pathways, and induce apoptosis. Polyphenols can also activate immune cells that have a debilitative effect on malignant skin cancer cells. This makes tea a refreshing alternative to the relatively caffeine-heavy coffee. Besides providing cancer-related benefits, the beverage can regulate blood pressure, cholesterol, stress levels, and mental health more efficiently.

Walnuts
Nuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, chemical compounds that reduce the chances of skin cancer by maintaining a healthy cell-mediated immunity (CMI). Omega-3 stops the growth and spread of malignant cells. Walnuts contain loads of these fatty acids and can be used as a delicious snack, a side dish to a healthy meal, or a key ingredient in any refreshing dessert. Besides walnuts, one can opt for flaxseed, almonds, and peanuts to fight skin cancer. Almonds and peanuts are particularly rich in vitamin E, another valuable nutrient to help prevent the disease or reduce the severity of its many symptoms.

Oranges
Several research studies have found that foods containing vitamin C can disrupt the growth and spread of cancerous cells. Specific properties of this vitamin make it a toxic element for malignant cells. As a result, choosing foods rich in vitamin C can reduce an individual’s chances of developing skin cancer or succumbing to it. Besides oranges, fruits and veggies like lemons, strawberries, raspberries, limes, broccoli, and bell peppers are considered a treasure trove of vitamin C.

Mackerel
Like nuts, fatty fish are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These acids are found in shellfish, sardines, tuna, salmon, and mackerel. Eating mackerel daily or frequently can double up a person’s immunity to melanoma, a particularly nasty skin cancer. Such fish can also build one’s defenses against non-melanoma skin cancers just as effectively. Furthermore, mackerel is a great food to significantly reduce the chances of keratoses, a precancerous skin condition that leads to skin patches and scales on various body areas.

Cod liver oil
Vitamin D is another nutrient with anti-cancer benefits. Besides reducing the possibility of developing skin cancer, this nutrient helps combat breast, rectal, and colon cancers. It also has bone-building and immune-boosting elements required for overall health. Cod liver oil contains a massive amount of vitamin D, so much so that just a tablespoonful twice a day is sufficient. Egg yolk, milk, and orange juice are other everyday sources of vitamin D.

While foods can help manage skin cancer, patients must visit a doctor before making any nutritional changes.