For some time, experts have explored the link between cancer and diet. The link seems to be growing stronger as a recent study found that a diet rich in garlic, onions, shallots, leeks and scallions may cut the risk of prostate cancer.
These foods, belonging to the allium group, have previously been found to contain anti-cancer properties. Not surprisingly, China, which has the lowest rate of prostate cancer in the world, uses these ingredients as a staple of cooking.
The study surveyed 200 men with prostate cancer and 500 healthy men in Shanghai, China and questioned them on their eating habits.
Results were straightforward: men who ate small amounts of onions, garlic, scallions, shallots and leeks each day decreased their risk of prostate cancer by more than 33 percent. Additionally, those who ate 2 grams of garlic per day deceased their risk of prostate cancer by more than 50 percent, but even eating only one clove cut the risk.
Scallions, which lowered the risk of prostate cancer by 70 percent, were found to be most beneficial.
Researchers say that, although results need to be repeated in other studies, it appears that a healthy diet plays a role in lowering the risk of cancer.
J National Cancer Institute November 6, 2002;94(21):1648-51
Dr. Mercola's Comments:
Now you can add garlic to the list of useful nutrients for prostate cancer. As an aside, whatever is good for prostate cancer typically is beneficial to treat breast cancer.
Following is a list nutrients and techniques that are likely to prevent prostate cancer, the number one cancer in men:
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