Study suggests that berries have anti-cancer properties

Scientific research has been published which suggests that eating berries may ease the effects of cancer thanks to their high content of antioxidants and bioactive compounds. According to Dr Lina García Mier, researcher in pharmaceutical chemistry biotechnology at the University of the Valley of Mexico (UVM), the study showed that strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, redcurrants, grapes and elderberries have anticancer properties. The article, published in the Handbook of Bioengineering Food, highlights that these fruits are high in phytochemicals, especially flavonoids and anthocyanins.

“These are polyphenolic compounds that have an antioxidant activity, that is, they combat oxidative stress (a process of cellular deterioration), which triggers different diseases,” said Garcia Mier. He added that the studies reveal, without a doubt, that nutrition influences disease. “It is necessary to have a diet that is varied, balanced and includes the consumption of fruits and vegetables, to avoid becoming susceptible to chronic degenerative diseases”.