Vitamin D and Colon Cancer

Vitamin D has long been known to be a factor in strengthening bones and teeth by acting as a catalyst for calcium absorption. But new research suggests it may also be helpful in preventing colon cancer, the third most common type of cancer and the cause of 50,000 deaths a year in the US.

Current dietary guidelines recommend that adults get at least 600IU of vitamin D daily. Unfortunately, very few foods are good sources (fatty fish such as salmon and trout are two). The body is capable of manufacturing vitamin D itself, but it requires sun exposure to do so, which is problematic for some people and in some places. That leaves supplementation as the best option for many people.

A recent study by the American Cancer Society analyzed data on over 12,000 people in the US, Asia and Europe concluded that people with a higher-than-recommended blood level for vitamin D had a 22% lower risk of developing colorectal cancer. Those with lower-than-recommended levels had a 33% higher risk of developing the disease.

The study's authors recommend that everyone ensure that they are maintaining at least the recommended blood level (your doctor can test this at your next physical) and that people over 70 increase their vitamin D intake to at least 800UI daily.

"What is optimal for bone health may not be optimal for colorectal cancer risk reduction," said study co-author Marji McCullough.