Anti-Inflammatory Carrot Ginger Soup: Cancer-Fighting Recipe

Carrot and Ginger Soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that offers significant health benefits, particularly for cancer patients. Packed with vitamins A and C, this soup supports eye health and boosts the immune system. The ginger adds anti-inflammatory properties, aiding digestion and reducing nausea, which can be especially helpful during treatment.

The beta-carotene in carrots may lower the risk of certain cancers, while ginger has been linked to potential anti-cancer effects. With its creamy coconut milk and nutrient-dense ingredients, this comforting soup provides a delicious way to nourish the body and support overall wellness.

Ingredients:

- 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped

- 1 medium onion, chopped

- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated

- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable soup

- 1 cup coconut milk

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

Note: Prefer homemade vegetable broth over store-bought, as it avoids unhealthy preservatives and additives.

Method of Preparation:

1. Heat Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Cook Onions and Ginger: Add the chopped onion and grated ginger to the pot. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Add Carrots and soup: Add the chopped carrots to the pot and pour in the vegetable soup. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer until the carrots are tender, about 20 minutes.

5. Blend: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.

6. Add Coconut Milk: Return the blended soup to the pot, stir in the coconut milk, and heat through without boiling.

7. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm.

Nutrition Value:

1. 4 Large Carrots (Peeled and Chopped)

- Calories: 200

- Carbohydrates: 47g

- Protein: 4g

- Fat: 1g

- Sodium: 160mg

- Cholesterol: 0mg

- Vitamins: High in Vitamin A (beta-carotene), Vitamin K, Vitamin C

- Minerals: Potassium, Calcium, Iron

- Nutritional Benefit: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, supporting eye health, immune function, and skin health.

2. 1 Medium Onion (Chopped)

- Calories: 44

- Carbohydrates: 10g

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 0g

- Sodium: 4mg

- Cholesterol: 0mg

- Vitamins: Vitamin C, Vitamin B6

- Minerals: Folate, Potassium

- Nutritional Benefit: Onions have antioxidant properties, support heart health, and possess anti-inflammatory benefits.

3. 2 Tablespoons Fresh Ginger (Grated)

- Calories: 18

- Carbohydrates: 4g

- Protein: 0.4g

- Fat: 0g

- Sodium: 2mg

- Cholesterol: 0mg

- Vitamins: Vitamin C, Vitamin B6

- Minerals: Magnesium, Manganese

- Nutritional Benefit: Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helps digestion, and may reduce nausea and pain.

4. 4 Cups Low-Sodium Vegetable Broth

- Calories: 40

- Carbohydrates: 8g

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 0g

- Sodium: 140mg

- Cholesterol: 0mg

- Vitamins: Varies depending on the brand, typically small amounts of Vitamin A, Vitamin C

- Minerals: Potassium, Calcium

- Nutritional Benefit: Vegetable broth adds flavor with minimal calories and sodium, enhancing the nutritional profile without excessive salt.

5. 1 Cup Coconut Milk

- Calories: 552 (for full-fat coconut milk)

- Carbohydrates: 13g

- Protein: 5g

- Fat: 57g (majority saturated fat)

- Sodium: 36mg

- Cholesterol: 0mg

- Vitamins: Vitamin C, Folate

- Minerals: Iron, Magnesium, Potassium

- Nutritional Benefit: Coconut milk provides healthy fats that support brain function and energy, with iron and magnesium contributing to overall wellness.

6. 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil

- Calories: 119

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 14g (mostly monounsaturated fat)

- Sodium: 0mg

- Cholesterol: 0mg

- Vitamins: Vitamin E, Vitamin K

- Minerals: Trace amounts of iron

- Nutritional Benefit: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, promoting heart health, reducing inflammation, and providing antioxidants.

7. Salt and Pepper to Taste

- Salt (1/2 teaspoon)

- Calories: 0

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Sodium: 1160mg

- Cholesterol: 0mg

- Vitamins and Minerals: None

- Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

- Pepper (1/4 teaspoon)

- Calories: 1.6

- Carbohydrates: 0.4g

- Protein: 0.1g

- Fat: 0g

- Sodium: 0mg

- Cholesterol: 0mg

- Vitamins: Small amounts of Vitamin K

- Minerals: Iron, Manganese

- Nutritional Benefit: Black pepper enhances digestion and offers antioxidant properties.

Summary

This Carrot and Ginger Soup combines nutrient-dense vegetables and spices, providing a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It's a healthy, flavorful choice that supports inflammation reduction and overall well-being.