A new report has found that people eating whole grains daily have a reduced risk of developing colorectal cancer.
The risk of cancer lowers, the more whole grains people eat, a new report by the American Institute for Cancer Research [AICR] and the World Cancer Research Fund [WCRF] has concluded.
It has also been found that hot dogs, bacon, and other processed meats consumed on a regular basis will upturn the risk of colorectal cancer.
Evidence
The report evaluated the scientific research worldwide, and it analyzed 99 studies – including data on 29 million people, of whom a quarter of a million were diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
Research found that eating around three servings (90 grams) of whole grains daily – like brown rice or whole-wheat bread – slashes the risk of colorectal cancer by 17 percent.
The findings of the new report are ‘robust and clear’: “Diet and lifestyle have a major role in colorectal cancer,” said lead author of the report Edward L. Giovannucci, MD, ScD.
He added: “Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers, yet this report demonstrates there is a lot people can do to dramatically lower their risk.”
Other factors
In the United States, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer among men and women – it’s estimated that 371 cases are diagnosed every day.
Eating high amounts of red meat, consuming alcohol daily, and obesity have all been linked to increased cancer risk.
Physical activity has also been found to reduce colon cancer risk.
“Factors such as maintaining a lean body weight, proper exercise, limiting red and processed meat, and eating more whole grains and fiber would lower risk substantially,” stated Giovannucci.
Plant-based
Research continues to point to the power of a plant-based diet, said AICR Director of Nutrition Programs Alice Bender.
“Replacing some of your refined grains with whole grains and eating mostly plant foods, such as fruits, vegetables and beans, will give you a diet packed with cancer-protective compounds and help you manage your weight, which is so important to lower risk.”
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