Breast cancer survivors who have a diet rich in starch are more likely to develop a new tumor than those who reduce their consumption, according to results presented at the 2011 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium.
Researchers conducted an analysis of 2,651 women from a clinical trial and followed the participants for an average of seven years. The scientists believe that the increased levels of insulin caused by carbohydrates may stimulate cancer cell growth.
"The results show that it’s not just overall carbohydrates, but particularly starch," said Jennifer Emond, a public health doctoral student at the University of California, San Diego. "Women who increased their starch intake over one year were at a much likelier risk for recurring."
Although carbohydrates provide fuel to the muscles and energy to the brain and central nervous system, some are better than others. White bread and pasta contains more starch than whole grains, so it’s preferable to consume whole grain foods.
The study concluded that there was a need for more research on dietary recommendations that consider limited starch intake among women with breast cancer.
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