Cancer prevention is one of the key tasks that medicine sets itself every day in the fight against the increasing number of diseases. A very important element of prevention is the diet, which has recently often been enriched with young barley and products based on it. We reach for it mainly for its weight-loss properties, but observations and studies show that it also has an impact on the process of cancer development, hence its suggested use for preventive purposes.
Poland, in the context of cancer, is not an isolated region of the world, as the number of patients suffering from this disease is also increasing in our country. According to the National Cancer Registry, between 1980 and 2010, the number of cases doubled, which means that the prognosis does not look good. Among the male population, lung, prostate and colorectal cancers are the most common, while breast, colorectal and endometrial cancers predominate among women [1].
The longer the life expectancy, the greater the likelihood of gene mutations, hence the incidence in women over 65 is quite often highlighted. This is mainly due to the greater number of years of life recorded in the female population. However, this statement is only stereotypical, since, as statistics show, more and more young people, as well as children, are affected by cancer, and the prognosis in this regard is alarming [1].
Factors in the development of cancer
Thepathological mechanism of cancer formation is very complex and multistage. Carcinogens are considered to be the main factors affecting the activity of this mechanism, and the ability to eliminate or modify them is a preventive priority. The leading areas under our influence that can significantly interfere with the process of cancer formation are lifestyle, diet, physical activity, smoking or alcohol consumption [1].
Diet and cancer
One of the main areas of action, and at the same time the field of action against cancer, is diet. It is through food that we provide our bodies with the necessary nutrients so that we have energy, develop properly and function properly. There are many links that have been clinically proven by many scientific studies that show the effect of diet on cancer. Fruits and vegetables present in the diet provide dietary fibre, which reduces the risk of colon cancer. Similarly, replacing red meat with poultry and fish helps to counteract the development of colorectal cancer. Thus, it is assumed that diet has a significant impact on the development of cancer, in as many as one-third of cases at a time, without conclusive confirmation of which dietary components have an impact on preventing recurrence [2].
photo: panthermedia
Thus, it should be borne in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all diet that is appropriate for every person battling cancer - a detailed history of dietary habits is necessary on the basis of which fundamental modifications can be made. Diet is not an element of one's life that can cure the disease, nor is it one by which the disease can be completely controlled, but it is a factor that influences the overall condition of the body, which aids the healing process [2].
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Young barley
In recent years, young barley has become extremely popular as a supplement and addition to the daily diet. Many women are choosing to include it in their menus, mainly because of its weight loss-enhancing properties. Its unquestionable advantages include a high amount of vitamins and minerals, as well as a high concentration of vitamin C, beta-carotene, amino acids and dietary fibre.
The antioxidant activity of young barley is important in blocking the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which in turn are an initial element in the process of cancer formation - so by supplementing with young barley, the concentration of free radicals in the body can be reduced.
Young barley is therefore a dietary element that has an impact on cancer prevention, mainly due to its ability to protect human fibroblasts from carcinogens. This action and mechanism is not fully understood, but it is believed that it is the antioxidant properties that are crucial here [3].
Barley is categorised as a food, hence it was necessary to test whether its properties are effective against cancer. The available research results, which address the ability of young barley to inhibit the division of cancer cells and toxicity to healthy cells, confirm its properties and effects. On the basis of the results obtained, it can therefore be concluded that the use of young barley supplementation in cancer prevention is justified, but clinical trials need to be undertaken to confirm its efficacy and safety. Nevertheless- lack of noticeable side effects, low cost and confirmed properties, it is beneficial to introduce young barley or products based on it into the diet [4].
