A new study published in Nature Communications provideS compelling evidence for the potential role of milk consumption in reducing the risk of colorectal cancer. Conducted by researchers from the University of Oxford and Cancer Research UK, the study followed the eating habits and health outcomes of 542,778 British women over more than 16 years, shedding new light on how small dietary changes can reduce cancer risk.
The research indicates that consuming 300 milligrams of calcium per day, equivalent to a 25 cl glass of milk, is associated with a 17% reduction in the risk of colorectal cancer. Calcium seems to be largely responsible for this protective effect. "The likely protective function of calcium may be related to its ability to bind to bile acids and free fatty acids in the colonic lumen, thereby reducing their potentially carcinogenic effect," the researchers explain, according to Die Welt.
The team led by Keren Papier from the University of Oxford examined the associations of 97 dietary factors with colorectal cancer risk. During the study period, 12,251 women developed colorectal cancer, as noted by Münchner Merkur, indicating the impact of dietary factors on cancer risk. The researchers concluded that 17 factors have a statistical effect on colorectal cancer risk.
In addition to milk consumption, the study found that daily consumption of more than 30 grams of red and processed meat is associated with an 8% increase in the risk of bowel cancer, according to Science Alert. Alcohol consumption was also identified as a risk factor. Die Welt reported that drinking a large glass of wine every day increases the risk of bowel cancer by 15%.
Whole grain products, fruits, carbohydrates, fibers, folate (or vitamin B9), and vitamin C may also have a protective effect against colorectal cancer. Consuming fiber-rich whole grains, fruits, and vegetables is recommended to reduce the risk. The positive effects of milk and dairy products on colorectal cancer risk are likely due to the calcium they contain. Consuming yogurt has shown similar health benefits.
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide. in the UK, approximately 45,000 cases of bowel cancer are found each year, making it the country's fourth most common cancer and the third most common worldwide. The disease usually occurs after age 50, with more than seven out of ten colorectal cancers concerning people aged 65 and older.
Lifestyle factors play a role in the occurrence of bowel cancer. According to Science Alert, smoking, lack of physical exercise, alcohol consumption, eating processed meat, and poor diet are important factors. According to data analyzed by Cancer Research UK, 54% of all bowel cancers could be prevented through a healthier lifestyle.
The researchers found that the protective effect of milk consumption on bowel cancer risk is independent of other dietary factors and lifestyle habits, as noted by Science Alert. They propose several potential explanations for this protective effect, including vitamin D fortification and the promotion of beneficial gut bacteria. Milk contains conjugated linoleic acid, a fatty acid that could have anti-cancer properties.
People with lactose intolerance, allergies, or other dietary restrictions should consult health professionals before making changes to their diet. "Milk consumption may not be suitable or beneficial for everyone," Professor Stebbing noted, according to Science Alert.
Dr. Luc Colemont explained that calcium has the ability to "bind to bile acids present in the colon and neutralize the toxic effects they have on the cells." He emphasized that calcium "is not magic" and that while milk consumption may reduce risk, "some people can drink milk every day, have a healthy lifestyle, and still develop colorectal cancer."
The study's findings suggest that increasing daily milk consumption by just one glass could reduce the probability of developing bowel cancer. Science Alert reported that this reduction in risk applied to various types of milk, including whole, semi-skimmed, and skimmed.
In countries like Africa and South Asia, colorectal cancer numbers are lower but are increasing, as noted by Münchner Merkur. The highest colorectal cancer case numbers are found in most European countries, North America, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. Wealthy countries more prone to processed food and obesity have higher rates.
Regular screenings can help identify polyp growths that may become cancerous. Dr. Colemont believes that Belgium should follow the example of the United States and offer screening starting at age 45.
While the study provides insights, the reasons why milk consumption may reduce bowel cancer risk are not fully understood. Researchers suggest that calcium is a key factor, but other components like vitamin D and beneficial gut bacteria may also play a role.
Colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting younger people, with one in five currently diagnosed cases in adults younger than 55 years, compared to one in ten cases recorded in 1995. "It's a cancer that is getting younger. More and more people in their forties are developing it," Dr. Colemont stated.
Sources: El Tiempo, Münchner Merkur, Die Welt, Le Vif, Science Alert, El Universo, ABP News, O Globo
The article was written with the assistance of a news analysis system.