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 Comparison Deaths per 100,

Kentucky Cancer Burden 2000 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 E Vitamin 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 & orange juice, peppers, tomatoes, & many other fruits & vegetables

Common Antioxidants Vitamin E found in nuts, fats & oils, Wheat germ & green leafy vegetables. Selenium mostly found in seafood & organ meats

Top Antioxidant Fruits & Vegetables Prunes Raisins Blueberries Blackberries Strawberries Raspberries Plums Oranges Red Grapes Cherries Kale Spinach Brussels sprouts Broccoli Beets Red bell pepper Onion Corn Eggplant

Epidemiological Trends  Age-related Blindness  Arthritis  Cancer  Cardiovascular Disease  Diabetes  Kidney Disease

Kentuckians Not Eating Enough Fruits & Vegetables

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.