11/25/2018 / By Michelle Simmons
African lettuce (Launaea taraxacifolia) has been used to treat dyslipidemia and liver diseases, both of which are associated with oxidative stress. A study published in the Journal of Natural Science, Biology and Medicine has suggested that the leaf extract of African lettuce can potentially be used as a therapeutic agent in preventing diseases associated with oxidative stress and DNA damage, such as atherosclerosis and cancer.
Although African lettuce has been widely used as food and medicine, research on its antioxidant potential and its potential in protecting against DNA oxidative damage.
For the study, researchers from the Republic of Ghana assessed the antioxidant potential of the leaf extract of African lettuce in vitro by conducting various tests. The results of the tests revealed that the leaf extract of African lettuce possessed DNA protective properties and antioxidant activity. In addition, the leaf extract of African lettuce exhibited a strong capability in DNA damage protection.
Based on the findings of the study, the researchers concluded that the extract of African lettuce leaves could be used as a therapeutic agent to prevent diseases associated with oxidative stress and DNA damage, such as atherosclerosis and cancer.
Antioxidants are compounds produced in the body and obtained in foods. Antioxidants are important in protecting the cells from damage, which is caused by potentially harmful molecules called free radicals. Free radicals can build up and cause a state known as oxidative stress, which in turn, may damage your DNA and other essential parts of the cells. Oxidative stress, then, can increase the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and cancer. High levels of antioxidant in the blood can help fight oxidative stress and lower the risk of chronic health problems. This can be done by eating a diet rich in antioxidants. Listed below are great dietary sources of antioxidants:
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