Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) has been used as a food and natural remedy for centuries. Its health benefits are recognised throughout the world.
Recently, there have been studies suggesting that EVOO may have anti-cancer properties and can be used as a valuable tool in the treatment of cancer. prevention and treatment of breast and colorectal cancer. Find out more.
Why EVOO is a good ally against cancer
Cancer develops when abnormal cells grow out of control and form tumours. This can be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as age, exposure to toxic substances, diet and lifestyle.
Extra virgin olive oil is special for cancer prevention due to its rich composition of antioxidants and unsaturated fatty acids, including oleic acid, polyphenols and tocopherols. These have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help prevent cell damage and the development of cancer.
In addition, the polyphenols present in EVOO have been shown to be able to inhibit the proliferation of tumour cellsThis could be of great use in cancer treatment.
Effects of extra virgin olive oil on breast cancer
There is evidence to suggest that extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) may have a positive effect on the prevention and treatment of breast cancer, according to a study published in the prestigious medical journal European Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
What is most surprising about the results obtained in this study is that the consumption of extra virgin olive oil for frying, seasoning or cooking, combined with two tablespoons raw, for example, for salad dressing, reduces the risk of breast cancer by up to 28%.
There is no single diet or food that can prevent breast cancer, but it has been shown that a healthy, balanced diet can help to reduce the risk. There are some foods, along with EVOO, that stand out for their preventive properties against breast cancer:
- Legumes. They are a good source of protein, fibre and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help prevent cancer. In addition, pulses are a healthy alternative to red meat, which has been linked to an increased risk of cancer.
- Frutos secos. They provide vitamin B6 and folic acid, which, according to certain studies, reduce the chances of suffering from breast cancer, especially after the menopause. In addition, experts say that eating 25 grams of walnuts considerably reduces the chances.
- Yoghurts. Yogurts and fermented milk are foods rich in probiotics that help slow down the proliferation of tumour cells.
- ApplesDid you know that an apple a day reduces the probability of developing breast cancer thanks to its polyphenols? This is the fruit richest in these substances. However, it is advisable to eat it with the skin on, as this is where most of the polyphenols are concentrated.
In short, as recent studies have shown, the benefits of using EVOO against breast cancer are numerous. And you, do you already include the recommended daily consumption of extra virgin olive oil in your diet?
