High-fiber diet linked to lower risk of breast cancer, study finds

A link between a high-fiber diet and a lower risk of breast cancer has been found according to a recently published analysis of relevant studies.

The findings, which were published in the peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society (ACS) called Cancer, showed a link between a reduced incidence of breast cancer when consuming a diet heavy in fiber.

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“Our study contributes to the evidence that lifestyle factors, such as modifiable dietary practices, may affect breast cancer risk,” said Maryam Farvid, Ph,D., of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, in a press release.

For their analysis, Farvid and her colleagues probed for all pertinent potential studies published through July 2019. Researches did so because studies reviewing the possible link between breast cancer and fiber-rich diets have given rise to inconsistent results.

Pooling data from the 20 observational studies the researchers surveyed, they found individuals who consumed the highest amount of fiber had an 8% lower risk of breast cancer. Higher fiber intake was associated with a lower risk in breast cancer in premenopausal and postmenopausal women. A lower risk of breast cancer was also linked to soluble fiber.

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“Our findings provide research evidence supporting the American Cancer Society dietary guidelines, emphasizing the importance of a diet rich in fiber, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains,” Farvid said.

It’s important to note, however, that the analysis does not show dietary fiber consumption results in a direct reduction of the risk of breast cancer risk. To test such cause and effect, a randomized clinical trial is required.