Walnuts are a nutrient-rich nut that has been linked to several health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

But did you know that walnuts may also have cancer-fighting properties? In this article, we’ll explore the research behind the cancer-fighting power of walnuts.

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a chronic disease that begins when abnormal cells in the body grow out of control. These cells can form a tumor that can spread to other parts of the body.

There are many different types of cancer, including breast, colon, lung, and prostate cancer. Cancer can be caused by genetic factors, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors.

What are Walnuts?

Walnuts are a type of tree nut that grows on the Juglans regia tree. They are a great source of healthy fats, protein, fiber, and several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc.

Walnuts also contain antioxidants, including polyphenols and flavonoids, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

How Do Walnuts Fight Cancer?

There are several reasons why walnuts may have cancer-fighting properties. First, walnuts are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body.

Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for several types of cancer, including breast and colon cancer.

Walnuts also contain compounds called phytosterols, which have been shown to reduce the risk of several types of cancer, including breast, prostate, and colon cancer.

Phytosterols may act as anti-cancer agents by preventing the growth and spread of cancer cells, as well as promoting apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in cancer cells.

Finally, walnuts contain several other compounds that may have cancer-fighting properties, including ellagic acid, melatonin, and vitamin E. These compounds may help protect cells from DNA damage and reduce the risk of cancer.

What Does the Research Say?

Several studies have explored the relationship between walnuts and cancer risk. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that walnuts may reduce the risk of breast cancer.

The study followed over 35,000 women for up to 10 years and found that women who ate walnuts regularly had a lower risk of developing breast cancer compared to women who did not eat walnuts.

Another study published in the journal Cancer Prevention Research found that walnuts may reduce the risk of colon cancer.

The study followed over 100 patients with colon cancer and found that patients who ate a diet high in walnuts had a lower risk of cancer recurrence compared to patients who did not eat walnuts.

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that walnuts may also reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

The study followed over 35,000 men for up to 14 years and found that men who ate walnuts regularly had a lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to men who did not eat walnuts.

How Much Walnuts Should You Eat?

While walnuts may have cancer-fighting properties, it’s important to remember that they should not be relied on as a cure for cancer. A healthy diet and lifestyle are still the best ways to reduce your risk of cancer.

The American Cancer Society recommends a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and low in processed foods, red meat, and sugary drinks.

Including nuts, including walnuts, as part of a healthy diet can have many health benefits.

It’s also important to note that walnuts are high in calories, so it’s important to eat them in moderation. The American Heart Association recommends eating no more than 1.5 ounces of nuts per day, which is about a handful.

Conclusion

Walnuts are a nutrient-rich nut that may have cancer-fighting properties. They contain several compounds that have been shown to reduce the risk of breast, colon, and prostate cancer.

However, it’s important to remember that walnuts should not be relied on as a cure for cancer. A healthy diet and lifestyle are still the best ways to reduce your risk of cancer.