Many people turn to supplements to boost their health. However, most of them are doing so without doing their research to make sure that they are buying a quality product and are falling victim to clever marketing. While a good quality product can help to fill nutritional voids, it is recommended to meet your nutritional needs with whole food.
“Diet and supplements have a significant impact on the causes and prevention of cancer. It is generally accepted that nutrition plays an important part in cancer incidence. However, even after decades of epidemiological research, several inconsistencies arise as to how exactly specific dietary factors are linked to cancer prevention, limiting the establishment of firm conclusions.”
The study
Recently a study published in Cancer Screening and Prevention added to the role of using food as medicine, suggesting that the food we eat may play a crucial role in cancer prevention. The study examined the relationship between diet, supplements, and the risk of cancer, finding that certain dietary choices and supplements could potentially reduce the likelihood of developing certain types of cancer.
Findings
This research suggests that the nutrients we get from the meals we eat could provide an “edible armor” against cancer. The researchers highlight how components from food such as polyphenols and antioxidants “help to repair cells, have anti-inflammatory properties, and reduce excessive free radical formation in the body, which is the main mechanism of action of cancer cells.” Additionally, omega-3- fatty acids in fish were found to influence the biological processes leading to cancer development, helping to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by up to 24%.
The findings suggest that this prevention is not just about adding healthy choices to your diet, it is also about the choices that should be avoided. Excessive intake of processed meats, alcohol, unhealthy fats, and sugar was found to increase the risk of cancer. However, this does not mean completely eliminating these options, it means keeping watch over portion sizes and eating them in moderation.
Supplements
The role of dietary supplements in cancer prevention was also explored, which yielded mixed results. Vitamin D, selenium, folate, Vitamin C, beta-carotene, and other antioxidants were found to have some potential promise against certain types of cancer when appropriate doses of quality products were taken. However, the researchers caution against viewing supplements as a “silver bullet”, making note that in some cases high doses of certain supplements may be harmful and increase the risk of cancer. They recommend obtaining nutrients from whole foods rather than relying on supplements.
Conclusion
The authors concluded that “People are more susceptible to diet-related illnesses and cancers as a result of changes in lifestyle and eating habits. Cancer risk can be lowered by following a healthy and balanced diet. However, excluding particular foods will not lower the risk of developing cancer, and the same applies to any diet or food group. But, consuming a diet rich in nutrients including fruits, whole grains, legumes, and vegetables can help to lower the risk of developing cancer and other chronic diseases.”
As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN does not agree or disagree with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement. Additionally, it is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
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References/Sources/Materials provided by:
https://www.xiahepublishing.com/2835-3315/CSP-2023-00001
https://worldhealth.net/news/are-fish-oil-supplements-good-idea-it-complicated/
