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A new study found a link between licorice and prostate cancer. Here’s why researchers think this information is worth investigating.

Love it or hate it, a new study discovered that licorice root is good for your health and could even prevent and treat cancer.

The discovery was made by researchers from the University of Chicago, who found links between the root that licorice comes from (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and a group of benefits related to cancer. The study, published in the journal Pharmacological Research, focused on prostate cancer, but researchers think these benefits could extend to other forms of cancer.

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Gnanasekar Munirathinam, associate professor and study lead, discussed the findings in a press release, breaking down some of the effects of the plant. “When we look at the research out there and our own data, it appears that glycyrrhizin and its derivative glycyrrhetinic acid have great potential as anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer agents,” he said. “More research is needed into exactly how these could best be used to develop therapies, but this appears to be a promising area of cancer research.”

While these results may prompt licorice lovers to overindulge in their favorite sweet, researchers explain that more study is necessary, even if they think there’s nothing wrong with consuming it occasionally. Licorice isn’t only made up of its root; it contains sugar and other elements that may mess with people’s blood pressure and systems if consumed in disproportionate amounts.

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There are plenty of foods that have been associated with cancer prevention. Foods such as nuts, broccoli, carrots, cinnamon, beans and berries have been linked with anti-carcinogenic effects. While it’s unlikely that someone will prevent the disease or cure it by merely consuming these foods, it’s never a bad idea to know these facts, and to add them as a part of a healthy and balanced diet.

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