With more than 250,000 new cases of breast cancer and over 135,000 instances of colon cancer each year in the US alone, finding effective treatments for cancer is more important than ever. When it comes to cellular health, two major pathways—the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs)—are integral to cancer development. Deregulation of these pathways can lead to the development, survival, and progression of cancer cells. Fortunately, recent research has identified a substance that could halt both of these pathways—guaraná.
Guaraná as a potential weapon against breast and colon cancer
Guaraná is a plant native to the Amazon region, and for thousands of years, it has been consumed for its energizing properties. Some of its most notable properties come from its generous levels of caffeine, catechins, and bioactive molecules.
This potent mixture of elements gives guaraná various health benefits, which include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiplatelet, antidepressant, and cytotoxic effects. In fact, recent research has uncovered some hidden cancer-fighting potential in this unusual plant.
Targeting cancer cells, without harming healthy ones
As you may know, cancer cells and healthy cells react differently to treatments. When it comes to innovative cancer-fighting solutions like guaraná, their true worth lies in their ability to not only kill cancer cells, but also to leave healthy cells intact.
In recent scientific studies, researchers discovered that guaraná successfully inhibited the mTOR pathway, which blocked cancer progression. They also found that the plant provided powerful antioxidant molecules that impeded the reactive oxygen species responsible for switching on the MAPK pathway.
These results demonstrate that guaraná has potent anti-tumor influences that can inhibit tumor colony formation and cancer cell proliferation. It’s important to note that these effects were not due to the caffeine content of guaraná, but rather, to its catechins, such as epigallocatechin-3-gallate, the same powerful catechin that’s found in green tea. Additionally, guaraná’s bioactive compounds, like eicosapentaenoic acid and proanthocyanidins, also contribute to its anti-cancer properties.
A crucial finding was that guaraná had no effect on healthy cells, meaning it retains their integrity and allows the immune system to function optimally. Many conventional cancer treatments affect both cancer cells and healthy cells, which can hinder cancer treatment by compromising the patient’s immune system.
Safe guaraná supplementation
While guaraná is generally safe to consume and supplement, just be cautious with the dosage. Daily doses higher than 250-300 mg have been known to cause side effects like insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, stomach irritation, nausea, vomiting, increased heart rate and blood pressure, and rapid breathing.
You might be tempted to get your guaraná fix from energy drinks, but it’s far better to consume the plant directly. Guaraná powder can be ordered online and easily stirred into water for a quick and simple natural health booster.
Don’t wait for a miracle—embrace nature’s remedies now
Potent natural cancer therapies exist in nature, but often take years to make their way into mainstream medicine. Don’t wait—start incorporating natural ways to fight cancer into your daily life, with minerals, herbs, supplements, and antioxidant-rich foods.
