Do vegetables and fruits reduce colorectal cancer risk?

By now, you've heard hundreds of medical authorities state that fruit and vegetable consumption will help reduce your susceptibility to colorectal cancer. It makes sense, and most of us have bought into this concept. Is there proof to the contrary? Maybe.

Some studies show no relationship between produce and reduced colorectal cancer rates
A Portuguese study shows that fruits and vegetables may not be as protective against colorectal cancer as doctors claim. The researchers did not conduct any clinical trials or test any patients. Instead, they reviewed the results of other studies that examined the relationship between colorectal cancer and certain foods and beverages.

They found that in 12 out of 15 studies, there was "no significant relationship between vegetable intake and colorectal cancer risk." Furthermore, there was "no relationship with fruit consumption" when they examined the results of 11 of 14 studies.

In three out of six studies, they determined that the combined consumption of both vegetables and fruit reduced the risk of colorectal cancer. However, the results were inconsistent because the studies involved both men and women. Because of gender differences, differing proclivities to colorectal cancer and anatomical differences, they could not state with assurance that consuming both vegetables and fruits reduces colorectal cancer risk.

Another surprise - eating meat does NOT increase your risk of colorectal cancer
The doctors also stated that eating white meat, fish, seafood, dairy products, coffee and tea "was mostly unrelated to colorectal cancer risk." They did find that eating smoked or salted fish increased your cancer risk.

The food you eat may not be as important as originally expected when it comes to colorectal cancer. Continue to enjoy eating a wide variety of foods. No need to become a vegetarian or to have meals that exclude meats. Vegetables and fruits are important because they provide fiber and essential nutrients such as antioxidants. Balance is the name of the game.

Man has always been omnivorous. Your stomach makes enough hydrochloric acid that it's unmistakably designed for digesting meat. Eating animal protein can still be a safe and important part of your diet. Enjoy!

Additional source:
Clin Nutr. 2005 Nov 11

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