There’s a lot of controversy over so-called “antinutrients” and whether or not they’re good for you. But researchers have found they serve a protective purpose for plants — and people.

Jacalin, a lectin found in jackfruit flesh and seeds, may be particularly beneficial for the immune system and staving off cancer. One study tested jackfruit’s phytochemical activity against human colon cancer cells. The study’s findings showed that jackfruit had an impact on both normal and cancerous cells, mainly through its impact on the immune system and its antioxidant activity.

Another study took this evidence further by demonstrating jacalin’s ability to modulate macrophages (an important type of white blood cell), effectively initiating the elimination of tumors in the body.

Saponins can also stop cancer cells from replicating. In one study, 35 mg/mL of jackfruit seed extract showed evidence of angiogenesis prevention, stopping the creation of new blood cells in tumors.