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A US study indicated that some foods, such as whole-grain bread, breakfast cereals, and dairy products, may be associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer, even if some of them are classified as ultra-processed foods.
Researchers from the National Cancer Institute in the United States analyzed data from 461,682 people aged between 50 and 71, and monitored their health status for nearly 19 years, during which 10,075 cases of colorectal cancer were recorded.
The results showed that people who consumed larger amounts of whole-grain bread had a 9% lower risk of developing the disease, while higher consumption of dry breakfast cereals was associated with a 16% lower risk. Consuming larger amounts of frozen desserts and dairy beverages was also associated with an 18% lower risk compared to those who consumed smaller amounts.
The study showed that increasing the intake of one serving of ultra-processed foods made from whole grains was associated with a 13% lower risk of the disease. Likewise, increasing fiber consumption by 10 grams per day was associated with a 28% lower risk.
In contrast, higher consumption of processed meat and fish products was associated with a 10% increased risk of developing the disease.
The researchers emphasized that the results do not prove that specific foods prevent cancer, but they indicate potential links between diet and the risk of the disease, and support recommendations to eat more whole grains, fiber, and dairy products, while limiting processed meats.
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