Walnut may help reduce Prostrate Cancer

Beat prostrate cancer by going nuts! Snacking on walnuts can cut the size of tumours and slow their growth, a new research shows.

Although the experiments were carried out on mice, the researchers from the University of California believe they are relevant to humans.

Potent threat

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men and the second highest killer after lung cancer. Although the causes of the disease are not entirely clear, it is known to be linked to diet, and tends to be most common in those who eat fatty meals low in fruit and vegetables.

Prostate cancer is very uncommon in men younger than 45, but becomes more common with advancing age. The average age at the time of diagnosis is 70.

Nutty saviour

Walnuts, which are naturally high in a host of health boosting chemicals, including omega-3 fatty acids, have already been shown to help stave off breast cancer and heart disease. The researchers advise that men add around 14 shelled walnuts to their diet for optimal health.

The study

University of California researchers studied mice genetically prone to prostate cancer. Some had walnuts added to their grain for two months.

Researcher Paul Davis reportedly said, "We found that walnut feeding resulted in smaller, slower-growing tumours. Walnuts should be part of a balanced diet that includes lots of fruits and vegetables."

Dr Helen Rippon, of the Prostate Cancer Charity, said, "It is far too early to say whether walnuts can prevent prostate cancer in men as well as in genetically modified mice.Nonetheless, dietary modification is of great interest in prostate cancer prevention, particularly as it involves men taking action to support their own health."