Accessible cancer prevention: Researchers reveal which foods help protect our intestines.

A recent study from the University of Oxford, conducted with financial support from Cancer Research UK, revealed that increasing daily calcium intake can significantly lower the risk of developing bowel cancer. The research, which analyzed dietary habits and cancer risk among over half a million women over a span of 16 years, found that consuming an additional 300 mg of calcium each day—equivalent to one large glass of milk—reduces the risk of colorectal cancer by 17%, as reported by Woman & Home.

Bowel cancer, the third most common cancer among women, is diagnosed in nearly 20,000 individuals each year in the UK alone, with an unclear rise in cases among those under 50.

Dr. Keren Papye, the lead author of the study published in the journal Nature Communications, explained that calcium may protect the bowel by binding with bile acids and free fatty acids to form a harmless compound that prevents damage to the intestinal lining.

While dairy products like milk are the easiest sources of additional calcium, other calcium-rich foods such as cheese, leafy greens like kale, fortified cereals, and fish with bones (sardines) also contribute to daily calcium intake. The NHS and the Royal Osteoporosis Society recommend these foods for those looking to boost their calcium levels while maintaining a balanced diet.

The researchers also identified other dietary factors influencing the risk of bowel cancer. Alcohol and processed meats were associated with a higher likelihood of developing the disease, with each additional glass of wine raising the risk by 15%, and processed meat consumption increasing it by 8%. These findings reinforce existing research highlighting the health benefits of reducing alcohol and processed food consumption. Conversely, products like yogurt, which is rich in riboflavin, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium, were linked to a decreased risk of cancer.

Although this study provides valuable insights, researchers note that the risk of cancer is affected by numerous factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and overall diet quality. Participants who developed bowel cancer tended to have other risk factors, such as older age, a family history of cancer, and less healthy daily habits. Therefore, while increasing calcium intake may be a beneficial preventive measure, it's important for individuals to discuss dietary changes or specific concerns with their doctors.

According to the World Cancer Research Fund, bowel cancer ranks fourth in terms of incidence worldwide, with over 1.9 million new cases reported in 2020. Countries with higher consumption of processed foods and alcohol often see elevated disease rates. Promoting a healthy lifestyle, including moderate consumption of such foods and beverages, as well as advocating for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and calcium, remains crucial to reducing the burden of this disease.

Important! This article is based on the latest scientific and medical research and does not contradict them. The content is for informational purposes only and does not contain medical advice. For diagnosis, please consult a doctor.