Beneficial Foods for Smokers: Exploring the Impact of Garlic, Celery, and Parsley

While tobacco consumption is undoubtedly a risk factor for various diseases, including cardiovascular issues and lung cancer, certain foods may offer some benefits to smokers in some cases.

Garlic: A Potential Cancer-Fighting Ally

According to a Chinese study, consuming raw garlic twice a week may reduce the risk of lung cancer. The research found a 44% decrease in the likelihood of developing lung cancer among participants who ate raw garlic. For smokers, the risk reduction was estimated at 30%.

The study, conducted by researchers at the Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, compared the dietary habits, garlic consumption, and smoking status of lung cancer patients with over 4,500 healthy adults.

Celery and Parsley: Anti-Inflammatory Relief for Smokers

Garlic isn’t the only beneficial food for smokers. A study from Edith Cowan University (ECU) in Australia suggests that spices like celery and parsley may have a particularly anti-inflammatory effect on smokers.

Professor Nicola Bondonno, a researcher involved in the study, explained to the BBC, “Both alcohol consumption and smoking increase inflammation and damage blood vessels, which can increase the risk of a range of diseases.”

“Flavonoids have been shown to be anti-inflammatory and improve blood vessel function, which could explain why they are associated with a reduced risk of death from coronary heart disease and cancer,” she added.

Flavonoids are recommended to be consumed in amounts exceeding 500mg per day. They can be found in foods such as broccoli and blueberries.

The Importance of Smoking Cessation

It’s crucial to emphasize that while certain foods may offer some benefits for smokers, tobacco use remains a major risk factor for lung cancer, causing approximately 80% of cases. The National Committee for Tobacco Prevention (CNPT) estimates that tobacco-related deaths in Spain reach around 52,000 per year.

Therefore, it’s essential for smokers to consider quitting to significantly reduce their health risks.