Fiber and a Healthy Pancreas
November 23rd, 2007 | by Mark Sapienza, M.D. |
Fiber intake may favorably influence a person’s risk of developing pancreatic cancer. A study conducted by the University of California in the San Francisco Bay Area looked at fiber consumption in people with pancreatic cancer compared to controls (those without pancreatic cancer) and discovered an inverse relationship between pancreatic cancer and fiber intake. People who ate more than 2 servings of whole grain fiber daily had a lower risk of developing pancreatic cancer than those who ate less than 1 serving per day. Those who ate the highest amount of fiber (greater than 26.5 grams/day) had about a 35 % reduction in risk. Brown rice and tortillas consumption were also favorably associated with a decreased risk but consumption of doughnuts (greater than 2 servings / week) was associated with increased risk as was cooked cereals. Refined fiber products did not lower the risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
More research needs to be conducted but the authors conclude that for now a diet high in whole grain fiber products may be good in preventing more than just heart disease and diabetes.
Reference: Chan JM et al, Am J Epidemiology Nov 15;166(10):1174-85
Tags: Fiber, Pancreas, Pancreatic Cancer