Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers. In order to reduce the risk of illness, it is important, among other things, to avoid being overweight, exercise regularly, avoid tobacco and limit alcohol consumption. Nutrition also plays an important role here. A study has now shown that eating leafy vegetables could help reduce the risk of colon cancer.
Increased intake of folate (folic acid or vitamin B9) – found in leafy vegetables such as spinach, cabbage and broccoli – could help reduce the risk of colon cancer. This is the conclusion of a study published in the journal “The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition”.
Folate for colon cancer prevention
In the study, researchers led by Dr. Konstantinos Tsilidis from the School of Public Health at Imperial College London found that people who consumed higher amounts of folate in their diet were less likely to develop colorectal cancer.
The risk fell by seven percent with 260 micrograms more folate. This amount corresponds to 65 percent of the daily recommended amount (400 micrograms).
As stated in a statement, these results support the hypothesis that folate could be effective in preventing colorectal cancer, even with regular intake, which can be achieved through diet.
“When it comes to colorectal cancer, people can take a number of steps to reduce their risk, including eating a varied diet – rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits and beans – which supports the results of this study,” said Dr. Tsilidis, lecturer in cancer epidemiology and prevention at Imperial College London.
“The potential health-protective benefits of vitamin B9 are demonstrated in this large study. The study also found some promising insights into how folic acid might influence cancer risk, including different genes, but this still needs further study.”
Foods rich in folate
Folate is found in many foods. Good sources include spinach, cabbage, broccoli, sunflower seeds, whole grains, legumes such as chickpeas, lentils and beans, and fruits, especially citrus fruits such as oranges.
Folate is also available as a dietary supplement in the form of folic acid. Folate and folic acid are crucial for the production of red blood cells and are particularly important for women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant.
In the latest study, researchers analyzed data from more than 70,000 people from 51 studies. They examined interactions between common genetic variants and dietary folate, folic acid supplement use, and total folate in relation to colorectal cancer risk.
They also found that one region of the genome in particular can alter the association of folic acid supplements with the risk of colon cancer. However, they emphasize that further research is needed to pinpoint the genes involved and their influence.
Supporting general health
“Interestingly, in this study, the protective effect was observed with usual dietary folate intake, providing further evidence of the importance of folate-rich foods as part of a healthy, balanced diet,” said Dr. Helen Croker, Deputy Director of Research and Policy at the World Cancer Research Fund.
Matt Lambert, nutritionist and health information manager at the World Cancer Research Fund, said: “This study confirms what we have been saying for years – that a healthy diet including vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes can help reduce the risk of cancer.”
Folate, found in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables, has not only been linked to a reduced risk of colon cancer, but when consumed regularly, it also supports our overall health. (ad)
