Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (133 page)

Water, to help keep the cells cleansed and hydrated.

Compounds in green tea called polyphenols (antioxidants) have been associated with a reduced risk of several cancers.

AVOID

Red and processed meats, as they are high in saturated fats, devoid of fiber, and contain toxins.

Foods high in saturated fat including meat, eggs, cheese, milk, butter, and cream. High intakes of this type of fat increase cancer risk.

Fried foods, margarine, and foods containing margarine such as pies, cakes, and cookies. These generally contain lots of saturated fat, hydrogenated fat, and trans fats.

Refined grains and white flour products such as white rice, white bread, and white pasta, as they lack fiber and have been robbed of many nutrients.

Processed foods, as they will increase the body’s toxic load.

Sugar and foods that contain sugar, as they lack nutrients and deplete the body of essential vitamins and minerals. Opt for naturally sweet foods such as fresh and dried fruit instead. Make sure dried fruit is free of sulphur dioxide.

Salt.

Alcohol, as it lacks nutritional value and has a negative impact on the liver, which is the main organ of detoxification. Too much alcohol has been linked to an increased risk of cancer of the mouth, larynx, esophagus, liver, breast, and possibly bowel.

Black tea and coffee. Instead, drink grain-based coffee substitutes and herbal teas such as nettle, fennel, chamomile, peppermint, and ginger.

HERBS

Echinacea, red clover, and astragalus all help to support the immune system.