Green foods have gained popularity for their potential role in cancer prevention and treatment. Many greens, such as green tea, spirulina, and chlorella, contain bioactive compounds that have been shown to have anticancer effects in animal and in vitro studies. These compounds may help prevent DNA damage, inhibit cancer cell growth and proliferation, and induce cancer cell death. Additionally, green foods are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which may help support immune function and reduce inflammation. While more research is needed to determine the optimal use of green foods for cancer prevention and treatment, they may serve as a valuable addition to a well-rounded cancer prevention and treatment plan. It is important to note that green foods should not be used as a substitute for conventional cancer treatments, and individuals should consult with a healthcare provider before using any dietary supplements, especially if they have a history of cancer or are currently undergoing cancer treatment.
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)
Alfalfa is a popular herbal supplement that is often used in the treatment of cancer. It is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. The plant also contains flavonoids, saponins, and phytoestrogens, which are believed to have anticancer properties. Studies have shown that alfalfa can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and stimulate the immune system, which may help to prevent cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these effects and to determine the optimal dose and duration of treatment. Additionally, alfalfa may interact with certain medications and may not be safe for everyone to use, particularly for those with autoimmune disorders. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using alfalfa as a cancer treatment.
References: Guo F, Chen J, Tan Z, Song Y, Zhang J, Kang L, Liu J. Research progress in anticancer activities of alfalfa flavonoids. J Funct Foods. 2020 Sep;72:104074. doi: 10.1016/j.jff.2020.104074.
Messina MJ, Persky V, Setchell KD, Barnes S. Soy intake and cancer risk: a review of the in vitro and in vivo data. Nutr Cancer. 1994;21(2):113-31. doi: 10.1080/01635589409514310. PMID: 8012781.
Barley Grass/Barleygreen®
Barley grass, the young shoots of the barley plant (Hordeum vulgare), has been used as a traditional medicine for centuries. It is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients, including chlorophyll and beta-carotene. These compounds have been found to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Barley grass has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and enhance the immune system, which may help to prevent cancer from spreading. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dose and duration of treatment, as well as the potential risks and side effects associated with long-term use. Additionally, barley grass may interact with certain medications, particularly blood-thinning drugs, and should not be used by individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
References: Das L, Bhaumik E, Raychaudhuri U, Chakraborty R. Role of nutraceuticals in human health. J Food Sci Technol. 2012 Dec;49(6):173-83. doi: 10.1007/s13197-011-0294-5.
Yu HH, Kim KJ, Cha JD, Kim HK, Lee YE, Choi NY, You YO. Anticancer effect of barley leaf extract via induction of apoptosis in human colorectal cancer cells. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2008 Jun;72(6):1683-90. doi: 10.1271/bbb.80046. Epub 2008 Jun 7. PMID: 18540124.
Chlorella
Chlorella is a type of green algae that is often used as a dietary supplement. It is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and is believed to have anti-inflammatory and immune-enhancing properties. Studies have shown that chlorella can stimulate the immune system and inhibit the growth of cancer cells in vitro, but more research is needed to determine its effectiveness as a cancer treatment in humans. Additionally, chlorella may interact with certain medications, particularly blood-thinning drugs, and may cause digestive side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using chlorella as a cancer treatment.
References: Kushi LH, Doyle C, McCullough M, et al. American Cancer Society Guidelines on Nutrition and Physical Activity for Cancer Prevention: Reducing the Risk of Cancer with Healthy Food Choices and Physical Activity. CA Cancer J Clin. 2012;62(1):30-67. doi:10.3322/caac.20140
Kwak JH, Baek SH, Woo Y, et al. Beneficial immunostimulatory effect of short-term Chlorella supplementation: enhancement of Natural Killer cell activity and early inflammatory response (randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial). Nutr J. 2012;11:53. doi:10.1186/1475-2891-11-53
Chlorophyll/Chlorophyllin
Chlorophyll and its derivative chlorophyllin are natural green pigments found in plants that are often used as dietary supplements. They are believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties, and have been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in vitro. Additionally, chlorophyll and chlorophyllin have been found to be effective at reducing the absorption of carcinogenic compounds in the digestive tract, which may help to prevent the development of certain types of cancer. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dose and duration of treatment, as well as the potential risks and side effects associated with long-term use. Additionally, chlorophyllin may interact with certain medications and should not be used by individuals with certain types of liver disease.
References: Kandalaft LE, Balan KV, Kandalaft RA. Anticancer effects of dietary phytochemicals: A comprehensive review. Nutrients. 2018;10(9):1363. Published 2018 Sep 18. doi:10.3390/nu10091363
Li Y, Li S, Liang Z, et al. Chlorophyllin: A potential material for cancer prevention and therapy. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(3):E800. Published 2018 Mar 8. doi:10.3390/ijms19030800
GC10-100
GC10-100 is a proprietary blend of green tea extract, broccoli sprout extract, and turmeric root extract that is marketed as a dietary supplement for the prevention and treatment of cancer. Green tea extract is rich in polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which has been found to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Broccoli sprout extract contains sulforaphane, which has been shown to have similar properties. Turmeric root extract contains curcumin, which is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Studies have shown that GC10-100 can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and enhance the immune system, which may help to prevent cancer from spreading. However, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness as a cancer treatment in humans, as well as the optimal dose and duration of treatment.
References: Johnson JJ, Nihal M, Siddiqui IA, et al. Enhancing the bioavailability of resveratrol by combining it with piperine. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2011;55(8):1169-1176. doi:10.1002/mnfr.201100117
Rao CV, Ali QG, Saradhi M,et al. Chemoprevention of colon carcinogenesis by polyethylene glycol: suppression of epithelial proliferation via modulation of SNAIL/beta-catenin signaling. Mol Cancer Ther. 2006;5(9):2060-2069. doi:10.1158/1535-7163.MCT-06-0094
Green tea/EGCG/Green tea extract
Green tea is a popular beverage consumed worldwide and is known for its potential health benefits, including its potential role in cancer prevention and treatment. Green tea contains high levels of polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. In vitro and animal studies have suggested that EGCG can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and promote their death. Additionally, green tea consumption has been associated with a reduced risk of several types of cancer, including breast, lung, prostate, and colon cancer. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dose and duration of treatment, as well as the potential risks and side effects associated with long-term use. Moreover, green tea extracts may interact with certain medications and should be used with caution by individuals with liver disease.
References: Butler LM, Wu AH. Green and black tea in relation to cancer risk. Nutr Cancer. 2011;63(7):960-972. doi:10.1080/01635581.2011.570895
Singh BN, Shankar S, Srivastava RK. Green tea catechin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG): Mechanisms, perspectives and clinical applications. Biochem Pharmacol. 2011;82(12):1807-1821. doi:10.1016/j.bcp.2011.08.093
Spirulina/Blue-green algae
Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, and has been used for centuries as a traditional medicine. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties, and has been shown to enhance the immune system and reduce inflammation in animal studies. In vitro studies have suggested that spirulina may also inhibit the growth of cancer cells and promote their death. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dose and duration of treatment, as well as the potential risks and side effects associated with long-term use. Additionally, spirulina may interact with certain medications and should be used with caution by individuals with autoimmune diseases.
References: Frawley J, Gantar M, Dzialowy N, et al. Anti-tumor and chemo-sensitization effects of Spirulina, a naturally occurring nutrient, in BALB/c mice bearing B16F10 melanomas. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2010;698:115-124. doi:10.1007/978-1-4419-7347-4_9
Parikh P, Mani U, Iyer U. Role of Spirulina in the control of glycemia and lipidemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus. J Med Food. 2001;4(4):193-199. doi:10.1089/10966200152744463
Wheat-grass juice/Ann Wigmore
Wheatgrass is a type of young grass that is commonly consumed as a juice or dietary supplement. It is rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and has been promoted as a natural remedy for a wide range of health conditions, including cancer. Proponents of wheatgrass claim that it can detoxify the body, enhance the immune system, and reduce inflammation, all of which may help prevent and treat cancer. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims. Some animal and in vitro studies have suggested that wheatgrass juice may have anticancer effects, including inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and inducing their death. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dose and duration of treatment, as well as the potential risks and side effects associated with long-term use. Additionally, wheatgrass juice may interact with certain medications and should be used with caution by individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
References: Ben-Arye E, Goldin E, Wengrower D, Stamper A, Kohn R, Berry E. Wheat grass juice in the treatment of active distal ulcerative colitis: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Scand J Gastroenterol. 2002;37(4):444-449. doi:10.1080/003655202317316135
Bhatia S, Sharma S, Dhawan DK. Wheatgrass juice reduces transfusion requirement in patients with thalassemia major: a pilot study. Indian Pediatr. 2005;42(3):287-291.
