Can consuming almonds give 100% immunity against cancer?

"Daily 5 Almonds = No cancer," the post said.

Cancer is not a joke and such baseless claims can be fraught with danger.

Fact Check

Undoubtedly, almonds are highly nutritious and rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. But, can consuming 5 almonds prevent cancer entirely?

NewsMeter ran a keyword search on google and found research by 'Stop cancer Fund' that said: "A 2021 meta-analysis collected results from over 40 studies, and it examined whether eating more nuts would have an impact on colon cancer risk. Researchers found that eating 5 grams of nuts per day could decrease the risk of colon cancer by 25%."

According to another research by the National Library of Medicine, "The high consumption of peanuts, walnuts, or almonds significantly reduced the risk for breast cancer by 2-3 times. This protective effect was not found with low or moderate seed consumption when compared with null consumption."

In an article in the American Institute of cancer research, "nuts are a great choice to include in a diet that promotes lower cancer risk and better overall health."

Dr. PalankiSatyaDattatreya, Director & Chief of Medical Oncology Services, RenovaSoumya Cancer Centre said:

Nuts like almonds are rich in vitamin E, various antioxidants, flavonoids, and phytochemicals.

Hence, Nuts (almonds in particular) should undoubtedly be an essential part of any healthy, balanced diet. Additionally, Exercise, adequate sleep, hereditary factors, avoiding tobacco, etc., and a clean environment are all possibly equal contributors to preventing cancer or for that matter many chronic disorders.

There are some 200 subtypes of Cancer, each of which is distinct and we know only a few causes or some risk factors.

Consuming one specific food item or a 'super-food' or a 'cure-all pill' cannot be the mantra for preventing any cancer or many ailments.

Dr. Vijay Anand Reddy, Director, Apollo Cancer Institute said:

Eat any seasonal fruit or nuts every day can prevent cancer by 80%, but nothing can give you 100% surety. Depending on a particular food item is not a good idea.

It is advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle and eat good food.

There are various types of cancer and several reasons for getting cancer. Every cancer has its treatment and preventive measures. Depending on almonds alone can probably lower the chances of getting cancer but the chances are not null.

It is always advised to see a doctor if you suspect any tumor or knot in the body rather than believing such hoax you see on social media.

Hence, the claim is misleading.