Black Raspberries Slow Cancer Development
If you have a family history of cancer, you might think that there’s not much you can do to lower your own risk of developing cancer. But a new study shows just how much of an impact a single food—black raspberries—can have on whether those “cancer” genes become activated and eventually lead to cancer.
The study found that animals exposed to a cancer-causing chemical had 2,200 genes activated. These genes were associated with cellular processes that contribute to cancer development. But in animals that were given dried black raspberry powder, some 460 of those cancer genes were restored to normal. (Stoner, GD, et al. Cancer Res. 2008 Aug 1;68(15):6460-7.)
These researchers point out that different foods help protect against cancer in different ways. Even a superfood like black raspberries can’t offer total protection. Your best bet is a mix of healthy foods, nutrients and supplements.
The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: This study confirms the power of “functional” superfoods like black raspberries to reduce your risk of developing cancer, even if you are genetically predisposed. Start protecting yourself against cancer now by incorporating functional foods like black raspberries into your recipes, and by taking supplements with proven cancer-fighting effects, such as berry extracts, green tea extract and resveratrol.
