According to recent study findings, eating a variety of vegetables may lower the risk of developing colorectal cancer. A diverse diet overall also appeared to lower cancer risk, researchers report.
Colon cancer appears to be one of the most diet-related cancers. To investigate this association, the research team reviewed dietary data from a 4-year study in Italy that included more than 1,200 people with colon and rectal cancer. Patients' food intakes were compared with the diets of more than 4,000 people without cancer.
The researchers also looked at diversity within specific food groups including dairy, bread and cereal, meat, vegetable and fruit.
Overall, a diverse diet appeared to lower the risk of developing colon cancer by 35% in men and by 15% in women regardless of exercise, body mass index, family history of colorectal cancer, or alcohol consumption.
More specifically, consuming a diet that included different types of vegetables was associated with a 34% lower risk of colon cancers and a 29% lower risk of rectal cancer for both men and women.
"This study suggests that total diversity is moderately related to a decreased risk of colorectal cancer risk," Fernandez and colleagues conclude.
Preventive Medicine July 2000;31:11-14
It is important to note that the study found the strongest correlation with eating a variety of vegetables. As I have mentioned time and time again, vegetables are crucial to optimal health.
People should also not take this study to mean that varying the type of junk food in their diet is benefical. Although most of us in good health can withstand the stress caused by an occasional indulgence, continued consumption of sugar and grains will eventually lead to serious consequences.