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We find a lot of advertising in the web regarding magic pills claiming to be a panacea for cancer, diabetes and a host of other diseases. Other ads grab our attention when they claim that there’s a special extract or a revolutionary process that results to a cancer fighting compound. If we’re suffering form cancer, we’re too desperate; we lower our guard; and go for them!

How does a Compound Work

Science analyzes a compound to learn how it works. Science takes it apart, piece by piece and rule out a synergistic effect with other drugs. This was how ellagic acid was tested.

What is Ellagic Acid

Ellagic acid is a phytochemical found in small luscious berries such as strawberries, raspberries and cranberries. We can also find this phytochemical in walnuts, pecans, pomegranates and other plants foods.

Cancer Research

Research discovered that ellagic acid slows down tumor growth caused by carcinogens. Carcinogens are chemicals that transform normal cells into cancer cells.

In breast cancer, ellagic acid was shown to inhibit angiogenesis by cutting down the growth of new blood vessels. These blood vessels form network to transport nutrients and oxygen and feed the growing mass of cancer cells.

Further, cancer research found out that ellagic acid activates the apoptosis pathway. This phytochemical makes these immortal cancer cells learn how to self-destruct! We have to remember that cancer cells don’t commit cell-suicide like normal cells do when they’re old and worn out.

Ellagic acid was also tested on colon cancer and it was discovered that ellagic acid has an anti-inflammatory effect.

In the laboratory, the effects of ellagic acid on cancer cells seem a God sent. All studies on ellagic acid were done on animal and cell culture and gave positive results. The exception to this laboratory study was prostate cancer where it shows support for standard hormone refractory prostate cancer chemotherapy.

Bottom Line

Go for these tiny berries! Consume other foods that contain the compound. They cost less and you just need a fistful every day. Choosing various plant food sources of ellagic acid could include other precious phytochemicals in the mix since cancer cells adapt quickly to mono-therapy.

But don’t discontinue your standard cancer regimen. Abide by your diet of consuming 5 to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables daily and include those delightful berries. Weave in at least 30 minutes of exercise daily in your day. Now, this isn’t as difficult as it seems!