Preventing Colon Cancer - Fiber or Whole-Grain?

Robert W. Griffith, MD

We know that both fiber and whole-grain foods are good for us, and controversy has swirled a bit about their role in preventing the likelihood of colon cancer. A large study reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition appears to have resolved this.

The study was part of the National Institutes of Health-AARP Diet and Health Study, which involved 290,000 men and 195,000 women between 50 and 70. Food-frequency questionnaires administered in 1995-6 were used to determine total dietary, fiber from grains, and whole-grain intake, among other nutrients. After 5 years of follow-up, 2974 cases of colorectal cancer had been diagnosed.

There was no association between total dietary fiber and colorectal cancer. However, fiber from grains was linked to a 14% lower incidence of the cancer. Whole grain intake was associated with 21% reduction in risk; the association with whole-grain was stronger for rectal than for colon cancer.

These results are similar to those reported from a Swedish study a couple of years ago. Together, they provide more reason than ever to eat more whole-grain foods!

Source
HealthandAge Blog