Cupid takes on cancer

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Dana-Farber experts highlight cancer-fighting sweets for your sweetie on Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is right around the corner, and what better way to say "I love you" than with something decadent, delicious – and healthy.

"Celebrating with a special treat made from bright whole foods that are packed with cancer-fighting phytonutrients is probably one of the nicest things to do for someone you care about," says Stephanie Meyers, MS, RD LDN, a nutritionist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston.

She says desserts don't need to be dipped and coated in sugar and fat. In fact, aiming for a few choice treats from nature is probably just what Cupid intended.

Here are some sweet, and healthy, notions that can be turned into tasty love potions.

I love you "berry" much

"Raspberries are high in vitamin C, manganese, and phytonutrients anthocyanins and quercetin. These nutrients may help slow cancer cell growth," explains Meyers. They are also one of the few fruits that do not cause a spike in blood sugar, which is important for anyone with diabetes or high blood sugar.

Pomegranate and Chocolate

The ruby-red pomegranate fruit packs a powerful punch and is high in the antioxidant ellagic acid, which studies have shown is related to both cancer prevention and slowing the growth of cancer cells.

The darker the chocolate, the higher the beneficial properties. Some reports say chocolate can also elevate mood, stimulate endorphins, and prevent signs of aging.

"The key to remember is overall balance in your diet," stresses Meyers. "A small piece of dark chocolate is a perfectly fine treat in the context of a diet rich in vegetables and fruits."

Forget the tango – try a mango

Mangoes are naturally sweet and rich in a number of different antioxidants. One of them, lupeol, is thought to rid the body of free radicals, which can trigger some forms of cancer and other disease. Some studies show that mango pulp may help in the treatment of prostate cancer, inflammation, arthritis, and diabetes.

Smooth operator

Toast the day with a low calorie smoothie that proves opposites do attract.

"What makes smoothies even more enticing is their low calorie count," points out Meyers. Weight management is important for everyone, but especially for cancer survivors. "By maintaining the healthiest weight possible, survivors can both improve immune function and promote anti-cancer activity in the body."

So reach for the blender, whip up a batch of smoothies and serve chilled in a martini glass as a dessert.

Meyers says that on Valentine's Day, or any day, "The key to keeping desserts healthy is to make sure to limit the amount of fat and sugar and try to use brightly colored fruits and vegetables in your diet."

Find more healthy, cancer-fighting recipes.


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Nutrition & Diet

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