Combat cancer stem cells in colon cancer with this “nutty” ally

by: Dena Schmidt, staff writer | July 17, 2023

(NaturalHealth365)  You might have already heard about the benefits of walnuts as a plant-based source of omega-3s.  The nutrients in walnuts offer many health benefits, including cardiovascular and brain health.  Could compounds in walnuts also ward off cancer?  Authors of a recently published study seem to think so.

Recent research has shed light on the remarkable benefits of nut consumption, particularly walnuts, in reducing the risk of cancer and mortality rates associated with the disease.  However, the question remains:  How does walnut achieve these impressive outcomes?

A study published in the journal Nutrients provides valuable insights by investigating the effects of walnut compounds on cancer stem cells and their potential in suppressing colon cancer.

Beneficial compounds in walnuts target cancer stem cells in colon cancer

In the study published in the journal Nutrients, researchers investigated the potential of walnut phenolic extract (WPE) and its active compounds to combat cancer stem cells in colon cancer.  By treating isolated cancer stem cells from colon cancer with WPE, they discovered that WPE inhibited their survival and induced their differentiation into normal cells.

Additionally, WPE reduced the expression of cancer stem cell markers and disrupted a crucial signaling pathway associated with their survival.  These findings suggest that beneficial compounds in walnuts hold promise for suppressing colon cancer by targeting and altering the characteristics of cancer stem cells.

Walnuts offer an abundance of plant-based omega-3s plus much more

Walnuts stand out among nuts as a wonderful plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids.  Within walnut phytonutrients and lipid extracts, there exist multiple therapeutic components that demonstrate the potential to target and eliminate cancer cells.  Moreover, walnuts contain impressive levels of a specific form of vitamin E, which has been associated with cancer prevention.

Beyond their cancer-fighting properties, walnuts offer a range of unique compounds that inhibit the growth of cancer cells.  These include the tannin tellimagrandin, the flavonol morin, and the quinone juglone.

In addition to their impact on cancer, regular consumption of walnuts has shown promise in preventing various diseases linked to poor lifestyle and dietary choices.  Heart disease, neurological disorders, and diabetes all appear to be mitigated through the incorporation of walnuts into one’s diet.  These multifaceted benefits position walnuts as a valuable addition to a health-conscious lifestyle.

 Combat the mid-afternoon slump with protein-packed walnuts

Incorporating one ounce of walnuts into your daily routine is a manageable task.  They can be enjoyed in various ways, such as chopped and used as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, and salads.  Additionally, walnuts make for a protein-rich snack option, ideal for combating the mid-afternoon slump between lunch and dinner.

However, it is important to exercise moderation when consuming walnuts, as excessive intake may place undue stress on digestion.  While walnuts are undoubtedly healthy and packed with essential nutrients, it is generally recommended that most individuals limit their intake to one ounce per day to fully enjoy the associated health benefits.

Sources for this article include:

NIH.gov

NIH.gov