Lowers risk
Oats and barley
oatmeal, barley soup, whole-grain cereal. Grains & legumes.
- Verdict
- Lowers riskStudies link it to lower cancer risk.
- How sure
- Rung 4 · StrongAt least one large randomized trial, or very large consistent studies, on this exact question.
The rung shows how sure the science is, not how big the effect is. How to read these ratings
Cancers affected
Colorectal
What the evidence shows
Oats and barley are whole grains rich in fiber. Whole grains and fiber probably lower colorectal cancer risk, per the World Cancer Research Fund.
What to do
Oatmeal for breakfast or barley in soups are easy daily swaps for refined grains.
Sources
To take it to your doctor, print this page.
Step by step
For the whole picture, from prevention and screening to treatment and life after, see the colorectal cancer page.