Pecans and affects on cancer...
Ellagic acid is a compound found in pecans as well as raspberries, strawberries, walnuts, pomegranates, and other plant foods.
This compound has shown some anti-cancer properties in lab studies. Though nothing can be proven for humans, ellagic acid has caused apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells and reduced the effect estrogen has in the promotion of breast cancer cells. Unfortunately, not all promising lab studies have been found effective in humans.
Only one study of ellagic acid has been reported. Italian researchers found that ellagic acid reduced the affects of chemotherapy in men with advanced prostate cancer but they caution that more research will need to be conducted before any conclusions can be drawn.
Raspberries, strawberries, and pomegranates contain the highest levels of ellagic acid but a balanced diet containing at least five servings of fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, seeds, or beans, is still the best option. Interactions of ellagic acid and other compounds are still unknown. Any supplementary consumption should be consulted with a doctor.
Pecans cannot do it alone. We must incorporate them into our diets along with many other wholesome foods such as fresh vegetables, grains and fruits.
