(NaturalNews) In the wake of the Fukushima nuclear power plant disaster it is crucial to understand the protective nature of foods in order to protect yourself and your family against radiation exposure. Research on food based radiation exposure after the Chernobyl disaster can give us insight on what foods can reduce radiation exposure from our diet. We also have research from Hiroshima after the atomic bomb attacks that has highlighted the protective nature of fruits and vegetables in the diet against cancer. Research following previous nuclear disasters gives us insight into the measures we can take to protect against the damaging effects of radiation exposure.
The Swedish Government monitored the radiation level of foods following the Chernobyl disaster. They found that most animal based foods including meat, dairy, and fish had higher levels of radioactive substances than fruits, vegetables, grains, and potatoes. Eating plant based foods can reduce exposure to radioactive substances by avoiding concentrations of these substances in animal fat and tissues. A plant centered diet in the midst of radiation exposure provides lower levels of radioactive substances as well as fiber, antioxidants, and phytochemicals that have the potential to reduce cancer rates associated with radiation exposure.
Radiation exposure causes cellular damage by forming free radicals that can have damaging effects on health, including the development of cancer. A study evaluating over 30,000 atomic bomb survivors in Hiroshima and Nagasaki found that those with the highest consumption of fruits and vegetables had a 13% lower risk of dying from cancer over the twenty year study period than those who consumed fruits and vegetables less than once per week. Sulfur-containing antioxidants found in cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, kale, and cabbage, have been found to provide protection against radiation exposure through their detoxifying properties. Pectin in fruits has also been shown to reduce levels of the radioactive substance Cs-137. Plant based foods provide protection against free radical damage and they can reduce the absorption of radioactive substances.
A study published in Russia reviewed the protective nature of dietary fiber against radiation. Researchers used concentrates of dietary fiber from lemon peel and beet root among other plants and found that the fiber did have radioprotective properties. The authors concluded that concentrated dietary fiber can be used in human nutrition to accelerate the elimination of nuclides or radioactive elements.
Whether or not the Fukushima plant meltdown materializes into a global disaster, the simple change to a strong plant diet can provide significant protection and health benefits for you and your family. Consuming a broad spectrum of fruits and vegetables can provide powerful protection against the ravaging effects of radiation exposure.
T.M. Hartle has a Bachelors degree in Natural Health Science with a concentration in Clinical Nutrition as well as a Certificate in Plant Based Nutrition from Cornell University. She is a student midwife who teaches pregnancy nutrition courses to midwives and childbirth educators throughout the country. She has a certificate in the Essentials of raw culinary arts from Living Light Culinary Arts Institute and is the Owner and Chef of The Peaceful Kitchen. http://www.thepeacefulkitchen.blogspot.com http://www.kid-healthy-recipes.com http://www.healthydietplanrecipes.com