This popular candy flavor can prevent and treat cancer

Love it or hate it, a new study has found that licorice root is good for your health and may even prevent and treat cancer.

The discovery was made by University of Chicago researchers who found links between the root from which licorice comes (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and a group of cancer-related benefits. The study, published in the journal Pharmacological Research, focused on prostate cancer, but researchers believe these benefits could extend to other cancers as well.

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Photo by Massimo Adami via Unsplash

Gnanasekar Munirathinam, associate professor and study leader, discussed the findings in a press release and broke down some of the effects of the plant. “If we look at the research out there and our own data, it appears that glycyrrhizin and its derivative glycyrrhetinic acid have great potential as anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer agents,” he said. “More research needs to be done on how best to use these to develop therapies, but this appears to be a promising area of ​​cancer research.”

While these findings could prompt licorice lovers to overindulge in their favorite candy, researchers say more studies are needed, although they think there’s nothing wrong with consuming it occasionally. Licorice is not just made up of its root; It contains sugar and other elements that can affect people’s blood pressure and system if consumed in disproportionate amounts.

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There are many foods associated with cancer prevention. Anticarcinogenic effects have been attributed to foods such as nuts, broccoli, carrots, cinnamon, beans and berries. While it’s unlikely that someone will prevent or cure the disease simply by consuming these foods, it’s never a bad idea to know these facts and include them as part of a healthy and balanced diet.

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