This site is inspired by the work of David Servan-Schreiber and scientific literature on nutrition and cancer prevention. It does not replace medical advice and does not constitute a treatment.

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Spinach & leafy green vegetables

Moderate evidence

Active compounds

MagnesiumFolate (vitamin B9)LuteinChlorophyllVitamin K

Targeted cancers

colonbreastlungpancreas

Anti-cancer actions

  • ✦Magnesium is a cofactor of many DNA-protective enzymes
  • ✦Folates participate in DNA repair — their deficiency is linked to several cancers
  • ✦Lutein inhibits cancer cell progression
  • ✦Chlorophyll binds to chemical carcinogens and promotes their elimination

How to prepare it

Spinach, arugula, watercress, lamb's lettuce, chard, kale. Eat raw in salads or lightly steamed. Magnesium absorption is improved with a squeeze of lemon (vitamin C).

Recommended dosage

1 serving per day — raw preferred or brief steaming.

⚗️ Food synergies

These foods potentiate the effects of Spinach & leafy green vegetables

🧄Garlic🍊Citrus fruits🫒Olive oil

How to prepare it

Raw spinach salad with lemon-olive oil dressing. Steamed spinach with sautéed garlic. Green smoothie with soy milk and lemon.

Scientific sources

  • —Epidemiological studies on folate and colon and pancreatic cancer risk
  • —Research on magnesium, DNA repair and cancer prevention