Protect Yourself Against Colon Cancer WhatYou Eat Matters (NAPSA)—Theprincipal causes of colon cancerare diet-related— so says an international panelof cancer researchers who reviewedthousandsof studies that looked at the relationship between diet and various cancers. The American Institute for Cancer Research puts an actual numberto how muchof an influence diet has on colon cancer. They estimate that up to halfof all cases could be prevented by eating healthfully. For years, the relationship between colon cancer prevention and food focused on fiber. Fiber is still important, but there are also several other substances that may help reduce colon cancer risk. Take a look. Fiber—Fiber is knownfor its ability to move matter through the intestinal tract. This “cleaning” action may help limit the time potentially harmful substances are exposed to the colon. Animal studies have also suggested that certain components within fiber may decrease the formation of cancerpromoting materials and slow the growth of abnormalcells. Nutritionists continue to recommenda diet rich in fiber. Such eating plans are associated with a lower risk of colon cancer. Aim for 25 to 35 grams a day. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains will help you meetthe goal. Folate—Emerging research indicates this vitamin may protect cells from being damaged by cancer-causing substances. The recommended daily amount: 400 micrograms. (See table) Low-Fat Dairy Foods—Researchers believe calcium, vitamin D and perhaps other substances in dairy foods maybind to cancercausing substances thereby making them less able to do damageto the colon. They may also help reduce the recurrence of polyps which could otherwise turn cancerous or slow the growth of certain cells that can lead to cancer. A recent study found that people who consumed 700 to 800 mil- ligrams of calcium a day, the equivalent of two to three servings of dairy foods, had a lower incidence of colon cancer than people whohadless calcium in their diet. Goal: two to three servings of lowfat dairy foods each day. Antioxidants—There is an entire arsenal of antioxidants that may affect cancer risk. Lutein, found in spinach, Romainelettuce and other greens, and sulforaphane, found in broccoli, are just two of the many that may help protect healthy cells and reduce the risk for cancer. A New Diet Connection? Scientists believe people who are insulin resistant may be more likely to develop colon cancer. Insulin resistance occurs when cells in the body do not respond to insulin the way they should. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a fiber-rich diet, plus staying physically active can help improve insulin sensitivity. A Great Start Toward Total Nutrition—Give the spotlight to plant foods—fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains. Plan meals using these foodsfirst. Brought to you by Total cereals, whole grain breakfast cereals with 100 percent of the daily value of at least 11 vitamins and minerals, including calcium. Cancer-fighting substances Foods to choose: Fiber Fruits, vegetables, brown rice, whole-grain breads, cereals and pasta baked beans, black beans and other legumes Folate Orange juice, dark green lettuces, spinach fortified breads and cereals Calcium, vitamin D, and other components in dairy products low-fat dairy products—milk, cheese, yogurt, cottage cheese Antioxidants Anyfruit or vegetable, all whole grains, legumes ee ee eee eee eee eee eee Se Note to Editors: This is series IV—2 of 26.
