Diet and the prevention of colon cancer Katrina Claghorn, MS, RD
Last Modified: February 10, 2002 Dear OncoLink "Ask The
Experts," What role does diet play in the prevention of colon
cancer? Katrina Claghorn, MS, RD, registered dietitian at the
Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania,
responds: There has been a great deal of research on the impact
of nutrition on colon cancer. Despite all the studies there is
still no definitive anti-colon cancer diet. Below is a list of
nutritional factors that have been found to have the greatest
potential for reducing colon cancer risk. - A high intake of
dietary fat, especially saturated fats mostly found in animal
sources, has been shown to increase the incidence of colon
cancer. Red meat in particular has been associated with
increasing risk. Include more fish, poultry and low fat dairy
products in your diet. - Fiber was long considered an important
preventive factor, however recent research has been conflicting.
It is still wise to strive for at least