Our parents always tried to teach us to eat our fruits and vegetables and as hard as it may be to admit it- they were right!
As little as an apple a day may just be what you need to help fight cancer . Research from the Cornell University in Ithaca, NY have shown after several published studies there is growing evidence that an apple and other fruits and vegetables significantly inhibit in rats, the size of mammary tumors. The importance of phytochemicals known as flavanoids which are found in apples along with other fruits and vegetables based on the study by Rui Hai Liu who is a member of Cornell’s Comparative and Environmental Toxicology. In addition, studies have consistently shown that diets which are high in fruits and vegetables are associated with a reduced risk of other chronic diseases as well.
Disease fighting antioxidants from plants known as phytochemicals are found in such foods as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. These chemicals have been studied for their large benefits against cancer along with heart disease and the prevention of diseases such as diabetes and cataracts.
The best way to obtain the benefits of the antioxidants is from whole foods directly. After 24 weeks of the study from three doses of a brewed extract from apples, breast tumor rates were 17% lower in rats receiving a low dose (equivalent to one apple for humans) to 39% lower (three apples a day) and 44 % lower with the high dose (six apples a day). In addition, the number of actual tumors also dropped from 25%-61% depending on the dose. Rui Hai Liu concluded that the extracts “effectively inhibited” breast cancer in rats.
Choose the type of apple(s) you prefer (Delicious, Honey Crisp, Pink Lady, Gala, etc) as then you will be more likely to consume them. For the better choice, we do recommend organic apples for less risk of pesticides in the soil and on the skin of the apple. You will receive the most benefit when including the skin of the apple for more fiber as well. While we can’t prevent disease completely, hopefully we can lessen or prolong our risk. Adding more fruits and vegetables to our daily diet, like we were told, just might help!