Consumption of Whole Grains and Cereal Fiber in Relation to Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies

Eating whole grains and cereal fiber regularly may reduce gastrointestinal cancer risk.

​This study evaluated the hypothesis that avid consumption of whole grains can protect individuals from cancer using a meta-analytic approach. Researchers pooled data and evidence from 43 eligible studies. 

Researchers observed that majority of the studies reported an inverse association between increased intake of whole grains and cereal fiber and the risk of gastrointestinal cancer. This meta-analysis adds to the growing number of studies supporting the role of whole grains and cereal fiber as protective factors against gastrointestinal cancers.