New genetic evidence could strengthen the link between the role of dietary fats with colon cancer progression. Because this cancer occurs in the digestive tract, scientists have often considered important links to diet . Now new evidence verifies a connection to dietary fats, such as those found in processed meats, butter, beef and pork fat, shortening, and margarine . Dr. Raymond DuBois, of Arizona State University , has identified a molecule, called peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta (PPAR delta), which, when deleted in mice with colon cancer, stopped the progression of tumor growth. The study was published in the April 21 early online edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences . The DuBois research team has been in pursuit of uncovering the links between inflammation and colon cancer for the past two decades. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. Diet and cancer Known risks for colore...
What's lurking in YOUR salad? Experts warn prewashed spinach still contains 90% of its bacteria and can cause food poisoning
Health experts have warned against eating pre-washed spinach. They say commercial washing techniques fails to remove 90% of the bacteria. Small peaks and valleys in baby spinach leaves could be a key reason why there have been numerous bacterial outbreaks involving leafy green vegetables, they say. Greens are washed by commercial processes before they head to the grocery store. But these methods, which can include water and bleach rinses or irradiation, are not completely effective, says Nichola Kinsinger of the University of California. She says scientists have estimated that 99 percent of food-borne illnesses from leafy greens can be traced back to disinfection issues. 'In a sense the leaf is protecting the bacteria and allowing it to spread,' said Nichola Kinsinger, a post-doctoral researcher working with Sharon Walker, a professor of chemical and environmental engineering. 'It was surprising to discover how the leaf surface formed micro-environments t...