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Foods High in Abscisic Acid

Abscisic acid is a plant hormone normally found in most fruits and vegetables. The acid not only promotes normal development of plant tissue, it is known to promote healthy cell function in animals. Dr. Virginia Livingston, a cancer researcher and pioneer in immunotherapy, discovered the relationship between a shortage of abscisic acid in the body and cancer. She discovered that foods with a high concentration of abscisic acid exhibited cancer-fighting properties.

  1. Apples

    • The old adage, "an apple a day keeps the doctor away," might be truer than we think. In addition to a high concentration of abscisic acid, apples contain a number of other natural phytochemicals that help promote healthy cell function and act as cancer-inhibiting agents. A 2009 study published in the European Journal of Cancer Prevention suggests that eating an apple a day reduces the risk of colorectal cancer by 35 percent.

    Artichokes

    • People have been eating the artichoke for more than 3,000 years. Once thought to be an aphrodisiac, this complex vegetable is noted now for its cancer-fighting properties. Researchers have demonstrated in over 200 scientific articles that artichokes may reduce the risk of several types of cancer including breast, liver and prostate cancer.

    Carrots

    • You don't need to be a bunny rabbit to know the health benefits of carrots. Studies have shown that abscisic acid in combination with beta and alpha carotene found in carrots reduce the risk of many types of cancer, lower blood pressure and promote healthy eyesight.

    Flaxseed

    • Flaxseed contains abscisic acid as well as Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Flaxseed reduces cholesterol and triglycerides, lowers blood sugar levels and promotes digestive health. According to the National Cancer Institute, flaxseed is also a promising cancer-fighting agent that warrants further study.

    Sweet Potatoes

    • The sweet potato is one of the most nutritious foods. In addition to high levels of abscisic acid, sweet potatoes contain abundant B vitamins, beta-carotene and vitamin E. Sweet potatoes reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease as well as help regulate blood sugar.

    Wheatgrass

    • Wheatgrass contains abscisic acid as well as 13 vitamins and more than 30 enzymes. Wheatgrass is known to alkalize and detoxify the body and increase oxygen levels in the blood. Abscisic acid is thought to be a key component of wheatgrass juice as an alternative cancer treatment because of its effectiveness as a anti-tumor agent.

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