The Diet and Cancer Connection

Dr. Sandra Bastin, RD, LD

University of Kentucky

Cooperative Extension Service

Objectives

What are functional foods? Connections science has confirmed between

some foods and health benefits. Specific nutrients and non-nutrients found in

functional foods thought to be of benefit to overall wellness.

The importance of a balanced diet and plenty of physical activity.

The Value of a Varied Diet!

Causes of Death ComparisonDeaths per 100,000

1996

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

HeartDisease

All Cancers Diabetesmellitus

KYUS

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

Lung Breast Coloretal Prostate

KYUS

Kentucky Cancer Burden2000

Deaths per 100,000 persons

Definition of Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds typically found in foods that significantly decrease the adverse effect of oxidants on body functions.

Oxidative stress is damage inflicted on cells in the body.

Free radicals are unstable, highly reactive molecules that cause oxidative stress.

The Theory of Antioxidants & Disease

Oxygen free radical

Fatty acids, DNA, or cholesterol

Vitamin EVitamin E stops the chain reaction by changing the nature of the free radical.

Common Antioxidants

Carotenoids found in fruits & vegetables ~ carrots, fresh tomatoes, tomato products, green vegetables, peppers, squash

Vitamin C found in oranges & orangejuice, peppers, tomatoes, & many otherfruits & vegetables

Common Antioxidants

Vitamin E found in nuts, fats & oils,

Wheat germ & green leafy vegetables.

Selenium mostly found in seafood & organ meats

Top AntioxidantFruits & Vegetables

PrunesRaisinsBlueberriesBlackberriesStrawberriesRaspberriesPlumsOranges Red GrapesCherries

KaleSpinachBrussels sproutsBroccoliBeetsRed bell pepperOnionCornEggplant

Epidemiological Trends

Age-related Blindness Arthritis Cancer Cardiovascular Disease Diabetes Kidney Disease

Kentuckians Not EatingEnough Fruits & Vegetables

77

78

79

80

81

82

83

84

85

1990 1994 1996 1997 1998

Percentages

Definition of Phytochemicals

Also known as phytonutrients.

Phytochemicals are substances found in plants that may act as disease-fighting substances or cause other health benefits when eaten as part of a varied diet.

Dietary Fiber

Insoluble fiber in wheat bran Betaglucan & saponins in oats Soluble fiber in oats, psyllium & whole

cereal grains

Benefits of Soyfoods

Soy protein may reduce the risk of heart disease.

Isoflavones may reduce menopausal symptoms.

Saponins may lower cholesterol and fight against cancer.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Probiotics Fructo-

oligosaccharides

Catechins Tannins Sulfides Plant Sterols

The Diet Cancer Connection Functional Foods

Functional foods are foods that provide a specific health benefit above and beyond

their inherent nutritional value.