A popular myth is circulating the internet that lemons and lemon juice cure cancer. The myth is so popular that even Snopes.com claims that the email message is a mix of truth and false information.
Based on a few recent studies, there is some truth to this myth. These studies show that citrus fruits, including lemons, contain compounds that may help prevent or fight certain types of cancer.
However, myths greatly exaggerate the cancer prevention potential of lemons and lemon juice. Recent studies have shown that the beneficial compounds in lemon juice are proven to be beneficial, but only in dietary amounts can they improve the body’s ability to fight cancer. At the end of the day, there is no scientific guarantee that radiation or chemotherapy will ever be replaced.
If you’re diagnosed with any type of cancer, “you need to continue eating healthy,” says Michelle Morgan, MD, a clinical dietitian. Don’t fall for fad diets or “anti-cancer” food claims. Follow your cancer care team’s treatment recommendations. If you don’t have cancer, eating a healthy diet can help reduce your chances of developing some types of cancer in the future.
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