Nuts and Cancer
Nuts may be considered a cancer superfood because they contain additive and/or synergistic properties that contribute to reduced cancer risk.
Nuts are a rich source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, tocopherols, antioxidant polyphenols, fiber, prebiotics, vegetable protein, minerals, and vitamins. The fiber and prebiotics can promote the growth of beneficial bacteria gut microbiome.[i]
Nuts can decrease glucose, insulin, and inflammation levels.[ii] [iii] All of which can increase the risk or even stimulate cancer if elevated.
A human genetic study of women with breast cancer found consuming 2 oz (60 grams) of walnuts a day for 2 weeks improved 456 cancer prevention and cancer growth genetic pathways. Analysis of the data showed activation of pathways that promote apoptosis (normal cancer cell death), helped keep cancer cells in place and inhibited the pathways that promote activation of pathways that promote proliferation and migration....