Avocados and Cancer

"The California Hass avocado was selected for study, because it is the most commonly consumed variety in the southwest U.S. 'the medical scientists are in Los Angeles.] These avocados were found to contain the highest amount of lutein* among commonly eaten fruits...as well as measurable amounts of related 'beneficial ingredients] including zeaxanthin**, alpha-carotine and beta carotine and vitamin E...

"Extracts was shown to inhibit the growth of...prostate cancer cell lines 'experimentally]...In common with other colorful fruits and vegetables, the avocado contains numerous...carotenoids. Because the avocado also contains a significant amount of monounsaturated fat 'see next article for effect on weight control] these 'avocado ingredients] are likely to be absorbed into the bloodstream, where in combination with other derived 'plant ingredients] they may contribute to the significant cancer risk reduction associated with a diet of fruits and vegetables." Emphases added.

*An important protective factor in avocados against macular degeneration, which often leads to cataract formation.

**Also important in avocados for eye protection.

From: Journal of Nutr. Biochem., vol. 16, 2005. By: Drs. Lu, Arteaga, Heber, et al., Center for Human Nutrition, U. of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1742.