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.