Describe the relationship between vegetarian diets and risks of colon cancer

Answer 1

Evidence suggests that high intakes of red meats, such as beef, lamb, and pork, and processed meats, such as lunchmeats and hot dogs, may raise the risks of colon and rectal cancer, and that vegetarian diets, particularly those that include fish, reduce them. In a study of over 60,000 people in the United Kingdom, those who ate fish or vegetables but not red meats had the lowest overall cancer rates—a finding that agrees with other studies. Other researchers, however, report no difference in cancer risks. Such conflicts may stem partly from wide variations in eating patterns within groups—some meat eaters also love legumes, fish, and vegetables and eat them often, while some vegetarians may base their diets on fried foods, refined grains, cheeses, sweets, and daily alcohol. More research is needed before conclusions about diet components and cancers may be drawn.