A new study from the Danish Cancer Society Research Center shows that eating whole grain foods can reduce the risk of bowel cancer.
According to the Danish researchers, this result is based on 55,000 questionnaires and research data collected in Denmark over the past 10 years. The data analysis shows that men who consume 50 grams of whole grain foods daily can reduce their risk of bowel cancer by 15%, but the effect is not significant for women.
The researchers explain that whole grain foods, such as whole wheat bread and oatmeal, can strengthen the gut microbiota and improve digestion, which is the main reason why coarse grains can prevent bowel cancer. However, it is not yet possible to explain why the anti-bowel cancer effect of whole grain foods was weak in women in this study. They speculate that it might be because the female data collected in this study was not sufficient. However, the researchers emphasize that other studies have shown that women eating coarse grains also helps prevent bowel cancer.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration recommends that Danish adults consume at least 75 grams of whole grain foods daily.