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Berries Found to be High in Phytoestrogens
Berry Works News, Fall 2000
Good news for berry growers; berries have recently been
pinpointed as a leading source of compounds thought to produce
health benefits for women, due to their high concentrations
of phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens, literally “plant
estrogens”, have been of interest to the scientific
community, because of their possible roll in prevention of
both breast and cervical cancer. Studies now indicate that
berries may contain some of the highest levels of phytoestrogens.
These compounds act as a natural form of estrogen.
In recent studies of the University of Helsinki in Finland,
scientists measured eight different berries for their phytoestrogen
level, and concluded that blackberries had the highest level
of phytoestrogens followed by strawberries. All berries tested
were a good source of this compound. Australian researchers
found that phytoestrogens, such as enterolactone found in
soy foods and lignans found in berries and flaxseeds, give
women a three-fold lower risk of developing breast cancer.
This study involved 144 women with breast cancer and a control
group with no cancer. The control group showed consistently
higher levels of phytoestrogens than the women with breast
cancer. Scientists conclude that a diet high in phytoestrogens
would help in fighting the onset of breast cancer.
In the most recent study, scientists at Clemson University
in South Carolina, are using berry extracts to inhibit the
growth of cancer cells in laboratory tests. The group, led
by Dr. Lyndon Larcom, has cultured cancer cells with added
berry juice or pulp and examined cell growth. They found that
berries significantly inhibit cell growth. They are also examining
the effects of berry extract on breast and cervical cancer
cells and found similar results especially in the early growth
stages of these cells. This study is in its second year and
the team of scientists involved hopes to publish their results
by next summer.
This information could significantly increase sales and marketing
of berries just as the soy industry has been impacted by similar
research and marketing strategies. We will keep you updated
on current developments, as they become available.
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