A doctor has shared which everyday drinks and foods can fuel cancer growth, and also revealed a powerful drink that may help prevent the disease. Speaking on the ZOE podcast, founded by Professor Tim Spector, Dr William Li, a world-renowned physician, scientist, and two-time New York Times bestselling author, discussed the impact of beverages on cancer risk.
The Holy Trinity of Drinks
Dr Li explained that coffee, tea, and water are three of the most popular drinks globally. He emphasised that genetics is not the primary determinant of cancer risk, and supporting the gut microbiome can help reduce it. He referred to coffee and tea as the "holy trinity" of cancer-fighting drinks.
Tea and Coffee Compounds
According to Dr Li, both coffee and tea contain polyphenols that amplify the body's cancer-fighting responses. Tea contains catechins, polyphenols that cut off blood supply to cancer, lower inflammation, and boost the immune system. The fibre found in tea leaves also feeds the gut microbiome. Coffee contains chlorogenic acid, the same substance found in apples, which lowers inflammation along with other beneficial compounds.
Matcha: The Most Potent Tea
When asked about the best type of tea, Dr Li recommended matcha. He stated: "If you want the full strength of cancer-fighting health defence activating ability, go for matcha. Because matcha is potent green tea leaves. You get the entire thing, you get all the fibre from the leaf itself. And that's what's actually going to help your gut microbiome as well."
Additional Benefits of Matcha
Matcha, a powdered form of Japanese green tea, has gained global popularity. One study on the therapeutic potential of matcha tea highlighted its health benefits, including enhancing cognitive function, improving cardio-metabolic health, and anti-tumorogenesis. Randomised clinical trials showed that matcha decreases stress, slightly enhances attention and memory, and has no effect on mood.
The Gut Microbiome and Cancer Prevention
Concluding his discussion, Dr Li stressed that the gut microbiome is an "undiscovered country for cancer prevention" and that "everybody can do something today to tip the odds in their own favour against cancer." He encouraged listeners to incorporate these drinks into their daily routines to support overall health.
