Hungarian researchers have discovered that taking vitamin D supplements may reduce the risk of colon cancer. A study analyzing 50 previous studies involving over 1.3 million patients found that people with adequate levels of vitamin D were between 25-58% less likely to develop the disease.
Vitamin D, also known as the “sunshine vitamin,” is obtained from sunlight exposure and certain foods such as oily fish, red meat, and egg yolks. However, Europeans, especially those living in cities, are at a higher risk of deficiency due to limited sunlight exposure. The researchers recommend taking supplements, which can be purchased at high-street pharmacies for around 2p per pill.
The study also found that vitamin D was linked to improved outcomes among patients with colon cancer, and some trials showed that late-stage patients given a daily dose of vitamin D lived two months longer on average. Vitamin D may help prevent colon cancer by combating inflammation and killing cancer cells.
However, the researchers acknowledged that further research is needed to determine the optimal dosage of vitamin D and its effectiveness. While some scientists suggest increasing pollution might be to blame for the rising trend in colon cancer, others attribute it to growing consumption of ultra-processed food.
The NHS recommends adults and children over one year old get 10 micrograms of vitamin D per day. Vitamin D is essential for bone health, immune function, and absorbing calcium and phosphate. A deficiency can lead to bone problems, including rickets. Taking too much vitamin D can also be detrimental to health, so it’s essential to follow recommended daily intake guidelines.
In summary, the study suggests that taking vitamin D supplements may help reduce the risk of colon cancer, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and optimal dosage.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14631735/vitamin-supplement-risk-colon-cancer-study.html