Olive Oil: Helping in the Fight Against Breast Cancer

Something as simple as olive oil could actually make a difference when predisposed to or fighting against breast cancer. Components in this antioxidant monounsaturated fat actually attack tumors, retarding their growth (even to the point of implosion) and can protect DNA against harmful cancerous cells.

Researchers at the Universitat Autonoma in Barcelona conducted a study utilizing rats who had carcinogen-stimulated breast cancer. The rats were fed one of three diets—olive oil, high corn oil, or restricted. The scientists found that the tumors in rats who were on the olive oil diet grew much more slowly that those who had either of the other diets.

The olive oil appears to prevent a genetic material that forces the increase in breast tumors and can stop the proteins that cancerous cells rely on to survive.

While initial tests have shown success only in rats, researcher Dr. Eduard Escrich said, "Even though caution must be exercised when applying experimental data to human breast cancer, our findings emphasize the importance that certain dietetic habits may have on cancer promotion."

The conclusion of the researchers, who intend to conduct a similar trial in humans, is that only continuous daily ingestion of olive oil will provide these types of results. It is recommended that 10 teaspoons of high-quality, extra virgin olive oil be added to the daily diet to benefit

Olive oil is part of a heart healthy Mediterranean diet. This type of diet has been shown to lower the incidence of asthma and allergies in children, lower the risk of metabolic syndrome, possibly eliminate diabetes medication for Type II diabetics, and may lessen the risk of cancer and depression.