This is an important article as it really challenges some basic foundational concepts. I have reviewed it carefully with Dr. Brasco, who is a naturally oriented board-certified gastroenetrologist.

We both can not find any flaws in this study's methods. But there are some concerns with the conclusions. It is important to note that the study was not for colon cancer, but for adenomas in the colon. Although they are similar they are not the same.

The second issue is that the numerous epidemiological that provide support for the use of fiber in colon cancer prevention can not be easily dismissed. Thirdly, the fiber used in this study was a water soluble fiber and may not provide similar benefits as water insoluble fibers.

However three other studies in the past year are coming to the conclusion that adding fiber to the diet does not appear to provide protection against colon cancer.

However, the most likely reason for the discrepancy has to do with the bacterial flora content of the colon. The fiber in the diet probably favorably influences the promotion of beneficial bacteria. But if the individuals do not have large percentages of good bacteria then they would not likely receive the benefit.

One way this could be checked would be to measure butyrate levels in the stool which would be a marker for levels of beneficial bacteria.

So, just like the addition of other supplements, the KEY message is that it not the supplements, it's the whole unprocessed food that is the key to health.

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