One of the most effective ways of fighting cancer is eating foods which are known to boost our own natural immune system. Mushrooms contain a wide variety of phenol and flavonoid antioxidants which help promote our immune systems by reducing inflammation and stimulating the release of protective compounds.

Mushrooms are great for people following a plant or mostly plant-based diet as they offer a “meaty” texture, different to that of any other vegetable. Common varieties such as Portobello, button, Shitake, Oyster and King George mushrooms have many health benefits but a medicinally grown mushroom called Turkey Tail mushroom, contains a variety of even more powerful antioxidants and other compounds which may help boost our immune system and even help fight cancers such as gastric, colorectal and breast cancer.

Research has shown that turkey tail mushrooms may have the ability to shrink certain tumours, possibly related to its immune-boosting effects.

One test-tube study found that polysaccharopeptide found in turkey tail mushrooms, inhibited the growth and spread of human colon cancer cells. In addition, a certain type of polysaccharide found in turkey tail mushrooms called Coriolus versicolor glucan may also suppress certain tumours.

There is some impressive evidence demonstrating the anticancer benefits of turkey tail mushroom when it’s used in combination with more traditional treatment, such as chemotherapy and radiation.

You can buy Turkey Tail in a powder form in capsules from most good health food stores.