Many foods can bolster the immune system. It is a part of the body that, when strong, responds to developing abnormal cancer cells which is called an "immune surveillance." Unfortunately, cancer cells can develop the ability to evade immune attack. Research has shown that there are nutrients which can both stimulate healthy, vital immune cells as well as render cancer cells more susceptible to immune attack.

COX-2 is one of the most important enzymes being studied in oncology and cancer prevention today. It increases the production of an inflammatory chemical called prostaglandin E-2 that the body needs to promote inflammation (which is sometimes necessary for overcoming infection or allowing a wound to begin healing by delivering infection fighting cells and proteins directly to the injured area). COX-2 and PGE-2 when found in balance proportion, are chemical signals crucial for immune response, clotting, and inflammation. However, like cholesterol, too much can be harmful.

In order to function optimally the immune system needs a wide variety of other nutrients. There are a number of natural ingredients that can stimulate the very parts of the immune system which we know are important for both preventing and fighting cancer, including maitake and shitake mushrooms, ginseng, and glutamine. A low-fat and predominantly plant-based diet, like any diet designed to detoxify the body, will also aid in strengthening the body's immune system. Leafy red, yellow, and green vegetables like spinach and kale contain carotenoid lutein which is protective against skin cancer.