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Writer's pictureMary Johnson MEd, MSN, RD

October 6 is National Noodle Day: Cancer Fighting Recipes

Updated: Oct 7, 2023



National Noodle Day is October 6th. Whole grain and veggie noodles are a great foundation for meals as part of a cancer-preventive and cancer-survivor-friendly diet. By pairing noodles with a bounty of vegetables as part of a plant-based diet, you can create some delicious cancer-fighting recipes. Today we will explore how noodles can contribute to cancer prevention and the well-being of cancer survivors when paired with a plant-based diet.


Types of Noodles

With so many noodles to choose from, there's always a great option to pair with the flavor profile you're after! Noodles can be spicy or mild and comforting. There are the common varieties such as egg, soba, rice and ramen noodles and then there are all the noodles you can make with vegetables and a spiralizer! Think zucchini, yellow squash, sweet potato, carrot, broccoli stems and bell peppers!


Cancer Fighting Recipes


Noodles are an excellent base for creating nutritious meals that can contribute to cancer prevention. When combined with a variety of colorful vegetables, they become a part of a well-rounded, plant-based diet that is associated with a reduced risk of developing certain types of cancer. Here's some inspiration for adding vegetables to your noodle dishes:


1. Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants. Saute' or chop them finely and mix them into your noodle salads or stir-fry dishes.


2. Tomatoes: Incorporate fresh tomatoes or tomato-based sauces in your noodle recipes. Tomatoes contain lycopene, a compound associated with reducing the risk of certain cancers. Lycopene and prostate cancer have been studied and results suggest there may be a protective effect.


3. Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. Slice them thinly and toss them into your noodle stir-fries for added nutrition.


4. Carrots: Grate or julienne carrots to add a touch of sweetness and nutrients to your noodle dishes. Read my post about carrots' cancer protective properties here:


Maybe you're someone who prefers a recipe to follow? Here are a couple published by The American Institute of Cancer Research.


Ginger Salmon with Spinach and Mushroom Soba Noodles - Ginger always gives dishes a fresh flavor and provides natural nausea relief for cancer patients. Mushrooms and cancer protective qualities have long been studied. Salmon contains the desirable omega-3 fats that are known to be heart healthy. Studies done on omega-3 and cancer have been inconclusive, however, there may be some cancer protective properties

https://www.aicr.org/news/easy-cancer-protective-meal/


Fresh and Light Veggie Pad Thai - This recipe contains loads of veggies, eggs, (I recommend the omega-3 eggs for the reasons addressed above) cancer fighting herbs such as basil, and soy. Soy and cancer have been studied and despite a lot of misinformation that still circulates, soy foods are safe. Read my article here:


Plant-Based Diet for Cancer Prevention and Survival


Pairing noodles with a variety of vegetables as part of a plant-based diet can provide numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of cancer and enhancing the well-being of cancer survivors. Plant-based diets are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, all of which play a crucial role in maintaining overall health.


Remember that a plant-based diet should be well-balanced and diverse to ensure you receive all the essential nutrients your body needs. Aim to incorporate a wide range of colorful vegetables, plant-based protein and whole grains alongside your noodles to create delicious and nutritious meals.


How will I celebrate National Noodle Day? With my sweet tuxedo cat, Noodle, of course! Every day is Noodle day around here!🐈‍⬛😂




On National Noodle Day, let's celebrate not only the comfort and flavor that noodles bring to our plates but also their potential in promoting health and well-being, especially in the context of cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship. By embracing noodles as a canvas for a plant-based diet, we can harness the power of nutrition to support our bodies for optimal health.


This is not intended as medical advice. Please work with a registered dietitian to develop an individualized plan that is appropriate for you.

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