Diet and disease

Definition

This article provides descriptions of nutritional and dietary elements that have proven relationships to certain diseases or conditions. For additional information on FDA-approved health claims, refer to nutrition labeling.

Information

This article addresses the following:

1. Calcium and osteoporosis.
2. Fiber and cancer.
3. Fruits, vegetables, and cancer.
4. Fiber and coronary heart disease.
5. Fat and cancer.
6. Saturated fat, cholesterol, and coronary heart disease.
7. Sodium and hypertension.
8. Alcohol.
9. Nitrates and cancer.

1. CALCIUM AND OSTEOPOROSIS:

Calcium is one of the most important minerals for human life. It is essential for the formation and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth. Calcium also plays a vital role in nerve conduction, muscle contraction, and blood coagulation.

Osteoporosis is a disease in which the calcium content of bones has been depleted. In this disease, calcium and phosphorus, which are normally present in the bones, become reabsorbed back into the body. This process results in brittle, fragile bones that are easily fractured.

Adequate calcium intake throughout childhood and puberty is one key to preventing osteoporosis. Lack of a calcium-rich diet during these years keeps individuals from reaching their peak bone mass. A low-calcium diet later in life also increases the risk of osteoporosis.

The recommended dietary allowances (RDA) for calcium reflect the varying needs of individuals based on age, gender, and hormonal factors. Many foods, such as some vegetables, contain calcium, but milk and dairy products are some of the most readily accessible sources. Calcium can also be obtained by taking supplements.

2. FIBER AND CANCER:

Dietary fiber is found in plant foods, where it occurs in two forms: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber attracts water and turns to gel during digestion. This process slows digestion and the rate of nutrient absorption from the stomach and intestine. Soluble fiber is found in oat bran, barley, nuts, seeds, dried beans and legumes, lentils, peas, and some fruits and vegetables. Insoluble fiber also adds bulk to the stool. It is found in wheat bran, vegetables, and whole grains.

A diet high in fiber has been thought to reduce the risk of cancers of the rectum and colon.

3. FRUITS, VEGETABLES, AND CANCER:

Eating more fruits and vegetables helps provide a good supply of fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, beta carotene, other carotenoids and vitamins, and other valuable substances called phytochemicals. Studies have indicated that a diet high in these nutrients and fiber can reduce the risk of developing several kinds of cancer, including stomach, colorectal, esophagus, larynx, and lung cancer.