Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have explored ways to reduce common health risks, which can help prevent cancer and other chronic diseases. Jill Litt, a professor in the Department of Environmental Studies, was particularly interested in horticulture. “Wherever I go, people say there is something about gardening that makes them feel better,” she says Best Live.
Litt says there have been many scientific studies that have looked at gardening, but none of them have examined community gardening. The new study, funded by the American Cancer Society and published in The Lancet Planetary Health, followed 291 participants who had not gardened in the past two years. Half the group worked in community gardens in Denver and Aurora, while the other half were instructed to wait a year before gardening. Both groups wore activity monitors and took health surveys that inquired about stress, anxiety, diet, and physical activity.
Participants who worked in community gardens ate more fruits and vegetables. In addition, they felt less stress and anxiety. They also ate more fiber and got more exercise. “These findings provide concrete evidence that community gardening can play an important role in preventing cancer, chronic disease, and mental disorders,” Litt explains.
Gavin DawsonFounder and Chief Coach Global Emergency Medicine, who was not involved in the study, maintains that gardening is an accessible way to achieve positive results. “This study is an excellent example of how a simple, low-cost intervention such as gardening can have a positive impact on both physical and mental health,” he said. Best Live. “Of course we can’t say that gardening cures cancer, but it may indicate that following certain lifestyles reduces the risk of cancer in the long term.”
The gardening group ate about 1.4 grams more fiber than the non-gardening group, with the authors highlighting the positive impact of fiber on your overall health. Fiber is involved in immune and inflammatory responses and influences metabolism and gut health. It also directly affects our chances of being diagnosed with diabetes and certain types of cancer.
Nancy Mitchella registered nurse and contributing writer Assisted Living Center, who was not involved in the study, points out that gardeners are also more likely to eat what grows in their garden, which may influence the risk of chronic disease. “They can choose to eat organic food from their own backyard rather than store-bought produce. These processed foods increase the risk of cancer if consumed consistently and in excess over a long period of time,” she explains. Best Live. “Homegrown produce is simply not treated with pesticides, industrial chemicals or compounds that have been observed over the years to be harmful to the body.”
Researchers say exercise is also important for overall health and disease prevention. Participants who gardened increased their activity level by 42 minutes per week. It is recommended to do at least 150 minutes of exercise every week. Community gardeners achieved 28 percent of this goal in just two to three weekly visits. “We’ve known for generations that exposing yourself to nature is good for the mind and soul. Modern science is beginning to show that it can even affect physiology and disease risk,” Litt said.
