Scientists at Marshall University wanted to know if something as simple as daily walnut consumption could influence the biology of breast cancer. The women in the trial, all awaiting surgery for breast tumors, added two ounces of walnuts to their daily diet.
Their Findings
Researchers analyzed tumor tissue before and after the walnut intervention to see how gene activity changed. What they found was remarkable: After consuming the walnuts for two weeks, more than 456 genes had shifted their behavior. The ones that promote cancer growth and migration quieted down, while those linked to cell death and immune defense lit up.
Of course, this was a small pilot trial, and it has not yet been clinically confirmed in larger scale studies, but this is one more piece of research supporting the idea that walnuts may be useful in cancer management and prevention. Animal research has previously provided supporting evidence that the consumption of walnuts may be effective at suppressing tumor growth. The anti-tumor activity observed in walnuts has been due to the presence of bioactive compounds, such as ellagitannins and urolithin A. Epidemiologic studies have also provided further evidence to support the correlation between regular nut consumption (including walnuts) and decreased risk and mortality associated with cancer. However, further large scale human clinical trials are warranted.
Until then, enjoy these little nuggets of health - they’re a simple way to care for yourself!
Until then, enjoy these little nuggets of health - they’re a simple way to care for yourself!