11
May
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A compound in blueberries may be good for preventing bowel cancer, say U.S. scientists.
The key ingredient, pterostilbene is a natural antioxidant and cleans the highly reactive molecules known as free radicals that can trigger cancer growth. Have already been discovered similar antioxidants in grapes and red wine, according to the report submitted to the American Chemical Society. Other experiments, also in mice indicate that pterostilbene may be good for lowering cholesterol levels in the blood. The researchers, from Rutgers University and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, say the compound could be put into a pill. The Lead author Dr Bandaru Reddy said that the findings of the study show the need to include more berries in the diet, "especially blueberries." A group of ratsthat were injected with an agent that causes cancer and then fed pterostilbene had fewer pre-cancers in their bowels than other rats.
The blueberry compound also reduced inflammation and cell division level in the intestines, which are also considered risk factors for cancer.
Fats
Although experts know the exact causes of colon cancer, the disease has been linked with a high consumption of saturated fats and calories.
Reddy and colleagues believe pterostilbene may be able to reverse this process, perhaps reducing cholesterol levels and fatty.
My advice is to eat a healthy, balanced diet rather than rely on 'superfoods' specific
Ed Yong, of Cancer Research UK
Experts already recommend eating plenty of fruits and vegetables-at least five servings per day, to prevent cancer and other diseases.
The pterostilbene also found in other types of berries and grapes.
Ed Yong, of Cancer Research UK, said: "While pterostilbene could reduce the risk of intestinal cancer in rats, it is unclear which will produce the same benefits in humans."
"More research will help to determine whether this chemical has a role in the fight against cancer," he added.
"At the moment, my advice is to eat a healthy, balanced diet rather than rely on 'superfoods' specific" recommended Yong.
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