Mustard is made from seeds that contain allyl isothiocyanate (AITC). The latter has been scientifically shown to “strongly inhibit the development of bladder cancer,” according to a 2010 study published in the scientific journal Cercinogenesis.
But what is even more surprising is that the AITC present in mustard seeds blocks the carcinogenic compounds of the components present in particular in processed meats – hence the importance of adding mustard to your hot dog!
But the seeds are not the only anti-carcinogenic component of mustard. Indeed, if we analyze the composition label of a jar of mustard (example here of French's Mustard, composed of: distilled vinegar, water, mustard seeds, salt, turmeric, paprika, natural flavors and garlic powder ), we realize that at least 5 of the ingredients contained in mustard would have anti-carcinogenic properties! Vinegar, mustard, turmeric, paprika and garlic.
Likewise, the high content of oxidants and selenium contained in mustard protects against colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, as well as certain cardiovascular diseases.