Unfortunately, providing information in the field of health without spreading unjustified fears and fake news seems like an undertaking.
This is demonstrated by a long series of false myths and urban legends linked for example to the consumption of certain foods and their danger.
By consulting reliable sources you can instead see how many foods can have different contraindications, but also many benefits.
Among these there are some that contain compounds of plant origin whose safety has always been controversial, apparently without reason.
In fact, it seems that a lot depends on the type of molecule, on the doses and on the characteristics of the single individual.
Indeed, the consumption of these could be an excellent ally against various neoplasms.
On the other hand, those who consume these unjustly feared foods could avoid different types of cancer
We are talking about foods that contain the notorious phytoestrogens, “cousins” of human estrogens, with a similar structure and mechanism of action.
A range of compounds unjustly demonized precisely for this particularity.
This mistrust is due to the fact that in some cases phytoestrogens can intervene in the functioning of human estrogens, sometimes amplifying their effects, other times reducing them.
According to some studies, this could expose those who take it in large quantities to an increased risk of cancer, especially breast cancer.
However, according to the studies reported by AIRC, a correlation has been shown between the consumption of foods rich in phytoestrogens and a decrease in the risk of breast cancer.
Still to be demonstrated, but always in the same direction, a protective function against prostate and endometrial cancer.
Therefore, those who consume these unjustly feared foods could instead avoid different types of cancer.
Which foods are the richest in this compound
There are three basic phytoestrogen groups and they are isoflavones, cumestans and lignans, present in different types of legumes, fruit and vegetables.
One of the foods that is notoriously richest in it is soy and its seeds, edamame, present mainly in Asian cuisine; but it is not the only one.
Sources of phytoestrogens are also dried fruit, in particular walnuts, prunes and dried apricots.
Also some types of seeds used to flavor certain dishes such as sesame seeds and flax seeds.
As for fruit, peaches, strawberries, blueberries and raspberries are very rich in them, while among the vegetables cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage and Brussels sprouts stand out.
In any case, in the event of a previous diagnosis of cancer, it is always advisable to consult your oncologist.
For the rest, as always, virtue lies somewhere in between; ok to the consumption of certain foods but without exaggerating.