Diet and Cancer

Whole Grains and CancerWhy should I be concerned about cancer?Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the US. It kills 1 out of every 4 Americans each year.

How is diet related to cancer?Diet may be linked to as much as one-third of all cancer cases in the US. Recent research has shown that components of plant foods called phytochemicals may decrease cancer risk.

What are phytochemicals?“Phyto” comes from the Greek word for plant. Phytochemicals are natural parts of plants that may help prevent chronic diseases like cancer.

How do whole grains decrease cancer risk?Whole grains are made up of all parts of the grain—the bran (fiber-rich outer layer), the endosperm (middle layer), and the germ (nutrient-rich inner layer). In addition to fiber and vitamins and minerals, whole grains contain phytochemicals (phytoestrogens, lignans and phytates) that may decrease cancer risk.

FAST FACTS...Wheat is grown in 42 states in the US.

Barley is the fourth largest grain crop in the world after wheat, rice, and corn!

Only 5% of the world’s oat crop is consumed by humans—the majority is fed to animals.

Quinoa may be a better protein source than soy!

Whole Grains in YOUR diet...Include 1 to 2 servings of whole grains per day. One serving is 1/2 cup of cooked whole grains or 3/4 to 1 cup of dry whole grain cereal or 1 slice of whole grain bread.

Prepared by J. Lynne Brown, Ph.D., R. D.Associate Professor Food Science

The Pennsylvania State University 2004 c Layout and Design by Dave Varley

College of Agricultural SciencesAgricultural Research and Cooperative Extension

Whole Grain Fiber (g/serving)*

*Average grams per 1/2 cup cooked whole grains.

Bulgur, 1/2 cup 5Barley, 1/2 cup 4Brown Rice, 1/2 cup 2Oats, 1/2 cup 2Quinoa, 1/2 cup 2Corn, 1/2 cup 2