First heart problems, now cancer? Wow.
"Scientists in Chicago say they have uncovered why a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil seems to cut the risk of developing breast cancer. The key is an ingredient of olive oil called oleic acid, they say."
"Northwestern University laboratory tests on breast cancer cells showed the acid sharply cut levels of a gene thought to trigger the disease. Cancer charities said the study, in Annals of Oncology, was interesting, but more research was needed."
"Not only did oleic acid suppress activity of the gene, it also boosted the effectiveness of a breast cancer drug called herceptin, which has helped to prolong the lives of many patients. "
"Lead researcher Dr Javier Menendez said: "Our findings underpin epidemiological studies that show that the Mediterranean diet has significant protective effects against cancer, heart disease and ageing."
And to think, Thomas Jefferson reportedly said that if he could get olive trees to grow in Virgina, he would be able to save hundreds of lives a year. I guess he was just a tad ahead of his times!
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