According to a review published by American Cancer Society, high fiber intake reduces the risk of breast cancer. Scientists compared fiber intake and types of fiber with breast cancer rates. People who consumed the most fiber had an 8% lower risk of developing cancer before and after menopause compared to people who consumed the least amount of fiber. Soluble fiber from cereals, fruits, legumes and vegetables showed the strongest association with reduced risk, and the strongest association was observed in fruit fiber. Several possible mechanisms behind the reduced risk include improved blood glucose control and insulin sensitivity, increased levels of sex hormone binding globulin, and improved gut microbiota composition. The authors noted that a diet rich in fiber is associated with an increased intake of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals, which provide a protective effect in the context of cancer development.
These results support the dietary guidelines American Cancer Society, which call for increasing the share of plant-based foods in the diet - fruit, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and other fiber-rich foods, and eliminating or limiting red and processed meat to reduce the risk of cancer.
Sources:
Farvid MS, Spence ND, Holmes MD, Barnett JB. Fiber consumption and breast cancer incidence: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies. Cancer. Published online April 6, 2020.
Rock CL, Thomson C, Gansler T, et al. American Cancer Society Guideline for Diet and Physical Activity for Cancer Prevention. CA Cancer J Clin. Published online June 9, 2020.
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