The cervix is the lower portion of the uterus. It plays an important role in the female reproductive system. During childbirth, this small passageway widens to allow for the passage of the baby. Some other things that the cervix does for women are as follows:
- It contains nerve pathways involved in the sexual response.
- It opens and closes to let menstrual blood out and sperm in.
- Keeps unwanted bacteria and viruses out of the uterus.
Your cervix is vulnerable to some health conditions such as polyps, dysplasia, chronic inflammations, and cancer.
Cervical cancer is one of the biggest threats to the health of every woman. One of the major causes of this cancer is human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. During the early stages of cancer, no signs or symptoms are produced. However, a more advanced stage may show symptoms which include:
- Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
- Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods or after menopause
- Watery, bloody vaginal discharge that may be heavy and have a foul odor
Diane Harper, a researcher at the University of Louisville, Kentucky, says that:
“About eight in every ten women who have been sexually active will have HPV at some stage of their life. In 98 per cent of cases it clears itself. But in those cases where it doesn’t, and isn’t treated, it can lead to pre-cancerous cells which may develop into cervical cancer.”
Due to this, it’s really necessary for you to be wise and eat the right foods that can help promote good cervix health.
Here are the foods you should be eating to lower your risk of this cervix cancer:
Apples
Apples are rich in flavonoids which may be the key in protecting your cervix against various cancers. Most of the flavonoids in this fruit are concentrated on its peel.
Curcumin
Your cervix health can be improved through the help of curcumin, the active ingredient in the bright-colored spice Turmeric. Curcumin can help keep cervical cancer at bay because studies have found that it can protect the body from HPV.
Carrots
Orange and yellow-colored fruits and vegetables should be on your top list of foods to consume if you really want to protect your cervix. Carrots, which belong to this group, are rich in carotenoids and beta-carotene which can help the body combat damages caused by carcinogens. You can eat raw carrots, roast them as a side dish or add them to a stew.
Vitamin B17-rich foods
Vitamin B17 is also known as amygdalin. It was found to have anti-cancer property. Start eating foods rich in vitamin B17 such as mung beans, apricot seed, raw macadamia nuts, wheatgrass, and fava beans.
Citrus Fruits
Vitamin C can greatly assist the health of your cervix, according to the Canadian Women’s Health Network.
Adding more citrus fruits into your diet is the best way for you to get enough vitamin C. Some of the best sources are lemons and oranges as well as Brussels sprouts and broccoli.
