Some foods help boost your body’s resistance to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the leading culprit in cervical cancer.

Eating healthy is no doubt essential for good health, but according to the American Cancer Society a woman’s risk of contracting cancer can be reduced by eating a minimum of five servings of fruits and vegetables on a daily basis. Of course there is a biological reason to this—the antioxidants that are naturally present in certain types of foods can slow or stop the process that causes cancerous cells to mutate or metastasize in the body.

1. Carrots

Carrots contain both beta-carotene and carotenoids that defend against absorbing carcinogens into the body’s cells. You can eat them raw, cook them in a stew, or include them as part of a salad, this vegetable favorite is both versatile and inexpensive.

2. Green Tea

Green Tea has gained popularity because of its numerous health benefits. Green tea contains polyphenols that is a specific type of antioxidant which helps prevent the division and multiplication of cancer cells.

3. Beans

Beans can be everyone’s favorite food if prepared properly and taken in moderation with other cancer prevention foods. Beans are high in fiber and protein and help to prevent damage to cells. Beans contain phytochemicals which are thought to slow tumor growth. These phytochemicals protect healthy cells from being changed into cancerous cells.

4. Lettuce

Lettuce, along with other types of leafy green vegetables contain flavonoids, considered by many to be a leading source of nutrients that afford a degree of protection against cancers.

5. Whole Wheat Bread

Whole wheat bread fills in the missing carb count. This food is important because carbohydrates are just as necessary as the fruits and vegetables, and contains vitamin B6. This vitamin is necessary to regulate the body’s immune system, maintain red blood cell metabolism, and promote the health of the nervous system. Make sure you avoid getting anything but 100 percent whole wheat; enriched wheat flour has had most of the important nutrient bleached and processed out of it, leaving it without much benefit to your health.