: They can help repair mutated genes before they become cancerous.
: Population studies, such as the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC), have linked high garlic intake to a significant reduction in colorectal cancer risk. How They Work: The Mechanisms
In the evolving field of , the "story" is one of moving beyond basic calories to using food as a precise biological tool. This approach focuses on phytochemicals —natural, bioactive compounds in plants—that do not just provide energy but actively "talk" to our cells to influence cancer development. The Core Concept: Food as a Biological Messenger Oncological Functional Nutrition: Phytochemical...
Research has identified several "powerhouse" compounds that exhibit potent anticancer activities:
: Found in cruciferous vegetables, these compounds help "detoxify" carcinogens and can slow the growth of existing tumors. : They can help repair mutated genes before
: They "re-teach" cancer cells how to die naturally when they are damaged.
: These act as internal "sunscreen" for cells, boosting the body's defenses against breast, bladder, and lung cancers. : These act as internal "sunscreen" for cells,
While standard nutrition focuses on macronutrients (carbs, proteins, fats), oncological functional nutrition prioritizes . These are chemicals plants produce for their own defense—to ward off pests or UV damage—which, when consumed by humans, can trigger protective pathways in our own bodies. Key Players in the Phytochemical Arsenal