Fibrous Compounds in Flaxseeds Can Reduce Risk of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent forms of cancer affecting millions worldwide. In the quest for natural and effective preventive measures, the role of dietary choices has garnered significant attention. Among various natural foods, flaxseeds have emerged as a potent ally in the fight against breast cancer.

Recent Studies About Flaxseeds

(Photo : Pixabay/Alex Dante )

Based on the research conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 240,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, which ultimately leads to about 42,500 deaths each year. There are a variety of hereditary and environmental variables that can lead to breast cancer; however, there are also certain lifestyle choices that may be able to lower our risk of developing the disease.

In postmenopausal women, the previous study stated that the consumption of a fibrous compound found in a wide variety of plant-based foods has been demonstrated to be associated with a lower risk of breast cancer mortality. Moreover, a chemical known as lignan is found in flaxseeds in exceptionally high concentrations.

Lignans are a type of compound that can be found in foods that are high in fiber, such as grains, seeds, nuts, and beverages like coffee. Researchers from Nebraska and Canada administered a solution of flaxseed oil to female mice. In their investigation, they discovered that it sparked a linkage between the microbiome of the gut and the microRNAs (miRNAs) of the mammary gland, which are associated with the proliferation of breast cancer cells.

The risk of developing breast cancer in rodents administered flaxseed oil was significantly reduced. These findings, according to the researchers, could become the basis for new dietary guidelines for the prevention of breast cancer, which is the most prevalent form of Cancer in the United States. Dr. Jennifer Auchtung, an assistant professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the author of the papers published in the journal, noted that gut microbiota significantly modifies many aspects of our food that affect human health.

They reportedly identified associations between diets high in flaxseed, the composition of the cecum microbiota, and the mammary gland's miRNA characteristics. These miRNA profiles regulate a wide variety of pathways, including those involved in cancer development. On the other hand, this initial investigation supports additional research regarding the function of the microbiota in dietary strategies aimed at mitigating disease-related risk factors.

Other Foods that has the Potential to Reduce Cancer

As per Dr. Johanna Lampe, a cancer prevention researcher at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and cabbage are abundant sources of isothiocyanates. These compounds are plant components that assist our cells in eliminating toxins and repairing themselves.

In particular, broccoli sprouts have a high concentration of isothiocyanate sulforaphane, which has the potential to strengthen the natural defenses that our bodies have against the daily harm that is done to cells. It has been established that the molecule offers protection against several different types of Cancer, including colorectal, breast, bladder, and prostate cancer-related cancers.

According to research, a reduction in the risk of developing Cancer and other chronic illnesses has been linked to the consumption of cruciferous vegetables in quantities that exceed four or five servings per week.