Health information

QUESTION: Is it true that the fiber in a diet can protect you from colon
cancer? That’s what I keep seeing on television, but I can’t figure out how
this works
Could you please explain?

ANSWER: Dietary fiber, found only in plants like vegetables, fruits and
grains, cannot be digested by humans
Some forms of fiber (particularly the
type in wheat bran) can absorb water in the gut, which softens and increases
the volume of the stool, thus speeding up the elimination of wastes through
the digestive tract.
That, of course, is how high-fiber diets help prevent constipation and
other intestinal disorders, but researchers aren’t sure how this protects
against colon cancer
They believe that by increasing fecal bulk, fiber
dilutes carcinogens, or cancer-promoting substances, found in the intestine.
And by speeding up elimination, these substances are in the intestine for a
shorter length of time.
Studies have shown that the incidence of colon cancer decreases 40 to 50
percent if the diet includes 30 grams or more of fiber a day
(The average
American consumes 15 grams of fiber a day.)
But be careful
Fiber is not a cure-all
Gradually add it to your diet;
a sudden increase may cause diarrhea and flatulence.

The material contained here is “FOR INFORMATION ONLY” and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician
Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.

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