Cancer risk: possible protective role of high carbohydrate high fiber diets

Epidemiological data from different populations have suggested positive relationships between the incidence of colon cancer and meat and fat intake and a negative relationship with dietary fiber consumption. Within population comparisons have been less clearcut. Current theories on colonic carcinogenesis in man involve increased concentrations of bile acids and their metabolites, alterations in colonic pH, low Ca++, raised NH3 and long chain fatty acid levels, and alterations in bacterial numbers, type, and metabolic capabilities. The many laboratory studies in rats have been difficult to interpret since powerful initiators of carcinogenesis are always required and this rather than the promotion of spontaneous neoplastic change is the sine qua non for tumor growth in this situation. The current dilemma highlights the lack of knowledge of most aspects of human colonic physiology. Until these issues are more clearly resolved the epidemiological leads would point to low fat diets rich in less processed starchy foods with increased fiber as possible protection. Such advice is in common with the pronouncements of heart foundations, diabetes associations, and recommendations of official bodies to the general public.