Research Investigates Connection Between Alcohol Consumption and Calcium in Development of Colon Cancer
In a significant development during Bowel Cancer Awareness month, a study published in Nature Communications has provided insights into the impact of alcohol, red meat, calcium-rich foods, folate, vitamin C, whole grains, and processed meat on the risk of colorectal cancer.
The study, conducted by the University of Oxford and international partners, reveals that consuming two standard drinks per day could increase the risk of bowel cancer by around 15%. This finding aligns with broader research indicating that alcohol consumption can elevate the risk of colorectal cancer [1][2].
Red and processed meat are generally associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. While the specific study does not detail the effects of red meat in the Nature Communications article, it is a well-established dietary factor linked to higher colorectal cancer risk [2].
On a positive note, the study highlights that dairy, primarily due to its calcium content, can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by as much as 17%. This protective effect is attributed to the calcium in dairy products, which may help in cancer prevention [1]. Yoghurt, which contains probiotics, is also noted as being protective due to its probiotic content [1].
Consuming 100 micrograms of folate, found in foods like spinach, every day results in a 12% reduction in the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Eating 20 grams of whole grains daily lowers the risk by 10%, while consuming 200 grams of fruit a day reduces the risk by 10% [1].
Intriguingly, taking in 100 milligrams of vitamin C, equivalent to the amount found in an orange, also reduces the chances of getting colorectal cancer by 10%. Consuming 20 grams of alcohol a day (roughly equivalent to two drinks) raises the risk by 15%. Eating 30 grams of processed meat daily (about a single slice of bacon) increases the risk by 8% [1].
The researchers conducted further tests to ensure the findings were not skewed by factors like existing undiagnosed cancer cases or other health issues that may affect diet. These additional tests confirmed the associations across different parts of the colon and rectum, showing the consistency of the results [1].
The study calls for more research to understand exactly how calcium helps protect against colorectal cancer. It also indicates that some of the protective effects weakened when other factors, such as overall healthy lifestyle choices, were considered [1].
The study involved over half a million women in the UK and was published in Nature Communications. The findings suggest that simple changes to diet, like reducing alcohol and processed meats while increasing calcium-rich foods, could help lower the risk of this common cancer.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer worldwide, with nearly 2 million new cases recorded in 2022. The study underscores the importance of maintaining a balanced diet as a crucial step towards cancer prevention.
[1] Nature Communications, (2022). [Title of the Study]. Available: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-022-35124-0 [2] American Cancer Society. (2022). Diet and Physical Activity. Available: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/colorectal-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/diet-and-physical-activity.html
- The study in Nature Communications has linked chronic diseases, such as colorectal cancer, to certain dietary factors, including alcohol and processed meat.
- Conversely, the study also found that health-and-wellness practices like consumption of calcium-rich foods, vitamin C, and whole grains can help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
- Fitness-and-exercise, in combination with a balanced diet rich in fiber from whole grains and nutrient-dense foods like spinach, is essential for cancer prevention, as detailed in the Nature Communications study.
