Dr. Archita Mahajan, a renowned Nutrition Dietitian, Child Care Homeopathic Pharmacist, and trained Yoga Teacher, who has been nominated for the prestigious Padma Bhushan National Award and honored by the Punjab Government, Himachal Pradesh Government, and Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Shri Kavinder Gupta, has highlighted the growing link between obesity and cancer risk while promoting preventive nutrition.
Speaking about global health research, Dr. Mahajan referred to a 2014 study published in The Lancet, which revealed that a high Body Mass Index (BMI) significantly increases the risk of developing several common cancers. The study, conducted on nearly five million people, found that gaining approximately 34 pounds can raise the risk of colon, gallbladder, kidney, and liver cancers by 10 percent or more.
According to experts, excess body fat produces hormones and inflammation-causing proteins that may promote tumor cell growth, making weight management a key factor in cancer prevention.
Dr. Mahajan emphasized the importance of including cancer-fighting foods in daily diets. Leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, mustard greens, radish, and turnip are considered among the most powerful anti-cancer foods. These vegetables are rich in glucosinolates, compounds known to detoxify carcinogens and help reduce cancer risk.
She explained that cruciferous vegetables also contain fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants such as beta-carotene and sulforaphane, which have been widely studied for their cancer-protective properties.
Other beneficial foods recommended include tomatoes, apples, lemon, mangosteen, black cumin, thyme, beetroot, coriander, and medicinal herbs known for their health-supporting properties.
Wild berries were also highlighted for their high levels of anthocyanins, flavonoids, and polyphenols, compounds that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation — two major contributors to cancer development. Studies suggest wild blueberries may contain nearly double the antioxidant capacity compared to commercially grown varieties.
Dr. Mahajan further noted the potential benefits of Chaga mushrooms, which possess one of the highest antioxidant capacities and may help protect cells from DNA damage. Research reviews have indicated their ability to induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in colon cancer cells.
Additionally, ginger (Zingiber officinale) was discussed for its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Bioactive compounds such as gingerol, shogaol, and paradol have shown potential in slowing tumor growth, promoting cancer cell death, and suppressing metastasis in scientific studies.
Dr. Mahajan concluded by stressing that balanced nutrition, weight management, and lifestyle changes including yoga and physical activity play a crucial role in reducing long-term disease risks and improving overall health outcomes.
