Spices may fight breast cancer

Forget the latest radioactive technology — the real answer to breast cancer could be in some spices that have been in use for thousands of years.

New research finds that compounds in turmeric and black pepper may decrease the growth of stem cells responsible for breast cancer tumors, while leaving normal cells alone.

There’s a big caveat here: This is early research, and it was done on breast cells — not on people.

So we need to see some more studies before anyone can say for sure if these spices can really fight or prevent breast cancer. But you don’t need to wait to make both of these great spices a natural part of your diet. They already have plenty of proven health benefits. Plus, they both taste great.

Curcumin, the key compound in turmeric, is a natural anti- inflammatory. It’s been shown to help fight stomach problems and may even help treat and prevent Alzheimer’s disease. It’s also shown promise in fighting pancreatic, colorectal and esophageal cancers. You’ll often find turmeric in curry dishes, but you can also learn to incorporate it into your own recipes.

Most Americans are more familiar with black pepper… but they may not realize that salt’s lesser-used companion is actually a powerful antioxidant. Some studies have shown that it may even help prevent colon cancer.

Black pepper can also stimulate helpful stomach acids to improve digestion, and can even reduce flatulence.

They say variety is the spice of life… but it just may be that a variety of spice will improve, or even save, your life.