Lower Your Insulin Like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1)

Women with high levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) may be at increased risk for breast cancer according to results of a study published March 11 in Annals of Oncology.  This is the largest study to date that looked at the relationship between IGF-1 and breast cancer.  IGF-1 signaling is involved in 87% of invasive breast cancers.  IGF-1 is a hormone produced mainly by the liver that is similar to insulin and helps promote growth, including cancer growth. Fat cells, cow's milk, and animal protein raise IGF-1 levels. So how can you lower your IGF-1 levels?  IGF-1 is lowest in those who eat a low saturated fat, whole foods plant-based diet and maintain a healthy weight. Fasting and fasting-mimicking diets, such as Prolon, lower IGF-1 levels as well. Learn more about plant based cooking at Culinary Rx, an online, interactive plant based cooking class.