A U.S. study shows that regular consumption of walnuts can reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Researchers from the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, including Elaine Hardman, presented the findings at the 100th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research in Denver, Colorado, on the 21st.
The researchers reported that in a breast tumor model study, they divided laboratory mice into two groups. The first group was fed a daily amount of walnuts (equivalent to a human consuming 56.7 grams of walnuts per day), while the second group was fed a standard diet. The results showed that after a period of time, the tumor incidence in the first group was significantly lower than in the second group. Additionally, tumors developed later in the first group and were smaller in size compared to the second group.
The researchers stated that under normal circumstances, 100% of the mice in this tumor model develop tumors within five months. However, the walnut diet delayed tumor development in the first group by at least three weeks. Analysis indicates that omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytosterols in walnuts played a significant role in this effect.
The researchers believe that although this study was conducted on mice, regular consumption of walnuts is clearly also beneficial for humans. Hardman said, "A healthy diet can prevent many diseases, so when you want a snack, eating walnuts is better than eating cookies, french fries, or potato chips."