IGF-1 and cancer doubts. I've read a few articles and I have a mess in my head.
A few weeks ago I found this article "Animal Protein and the Cancer Promoter IGF-1" (https://nutritionfacts.org/2013/02/14/animal-protein-and-igf-1) where we're explained that the structure of animal protein is easier to metabolize and it makes the body to create more IGF-1. It also establishes the association between this hormone and cancer, so the conclusion we end up with is: we should avoid animal products in order to avoid cancer. But it felt weird for me to hear so I kept researching. I heard that processed meats and red meats are very associated with some cancers so I thought: maybe they have more animal protein and that's the link, but in the article "Red Meat vs. White Meat: Which is Healthier?" it's presented that red and white meats have a similar amount of protein. Not only we can read this but also the differences between these two kinds of meats, mainly: Myoglobin and iron.
I haven't found any relationship between myoglobin, iron, and cancer so I keep researching and I've just read this: "What Does It Do in the Body, and Does It Really Cause Cancer?" In this article it's said: Some people claim that IGF-1 causes the growth of cancer, because as a growth hormone, its primary function is to make things grow, but the accusation is unfounded. Yes, studies have found an association between very high levels of IGF-1 and some types of cancer, but no study has proven that IGF-1 is the actual cause of the cancer.[xv] Many experts now agree, IGF-1 is not the cause of cancer, but a consequence of it. High IGF-1 can indicate the presence of an undetected tumor, and the higher IGF-1 levels found in cancer patients is likely caused because the tumor is secreting IGF-1. [xvi][xvii] Another explanation for the IGF-1-cancer link, is that IGF-1 plays a prominent role in the regulation of immunity and inflammation and the body may increase IGF-1 levels in response to the immunosuppression and inflammation that cancer causes.[xviii] Also worth noting is the fact that higher IGF-1 levels are associated with less invasive types of breast cancer in women, and low IGF-1 is linked to uterine cancer.[xix]
But they also include: Dairy and meat boost IGF-1 levels, but we urge you not to consume animal products for this purpose. Omnivores have a much higher risk for cancer, and most other deadly chronic diseases.[xx] Consuming a whole-foods, plant-based diet, that is void of processed oils, and packaged foods is the absolute best way to boost your health and protect yourself from cancer. You can safely increase your IGF-1 levels with plant-based amino acids and soy is one of the most powerful vegan IGF-1 boosters.
I would like to have some explanation about this last paragraph because IDK why they urge us not to consume animal products. I am vegan so I don't eat animal products, but I want to learn about nutrition.
So what is happening IRL with cancer?
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