Multivitamin and Calcium Supplementation May Reduce Colorectal Cancer Risk

Here's more scientific evidence showing nutritional supplements may help in prevention of some cancers.

At a Glance—   A new meta-analysis has shown evidence in favor of a protective effect for dietary supplementation against the risk of colorectal cancer.
Read more about this research below.

Colorectal cancer is a major health concern, primarily in industrialized countries. Previous research has shown associations between some nutrients, such as calcium, and the risk of colorectal cancer. However, no systematic review or meta-analysis of prospective studies has focused on cancer risk and the use of dietary supplements specifically.  

In a new study published online in the International Journal of Cancer, researchers analyzed 24 studies examining the association between the use of supplements and risk of colon, rectal and colorectal cancer. This meta-analysis included original and peer-reviewed relevant studies published up until January 2013. 

The use of multivitamin supplements was associated with an 8% lower risk of colorectal cancer when compared to non-use of multivitamins. Subjects that used calcium supplements specifically had a 14% reduction in the risk of colorectal cancer compared to those who didn’t use calcium supplements. Inconsistent associations were found for colon cancer and colorectal cancer risk and other specific supplements, which included vitamins A, C, D, E and garlic. And, contrary to some recent concerns, no negative effect was found for folic acid.

The results of this meta-analysis suggest that in addition to other lifestyle factors, multivitamins and calcium supplements may have a beneficial effect on colorectal cancer risk. This research adds to the data from previous trials and cohort studies that have consistently shown that calcium supplementation may be beneficial in colorectal cancer prevention.

Heine-Bröring RC et al. Dietary supplement use and colorectal cancer risk: A systematic review and meta-analyses of prospective cohort studies  Int J Cancer. 2014 Oct 21. doi: 10.1002/ijc.29277. [Epub ahead of print]

 

What's the Buzz About Krill?

Krill are tiny shrimp-like crustaceans that feed on plants in the ocean. Baleen whales, mantas, and whale sharks eat primarily krill. In Norwegian, the word "krill" means "whale food." People extract the oil from krill, place it in capsules, and use it for medicine. Some brand name krill oil products indicate that they use Antarctic krill. This usually refers to the species of krill called Euphausia superba.

Recently krill has been discovered to have some of the same potential benefits to human health as fish oil. Krill oil contains fatty acids similar to fish oil. These fats are thought to be beneficial fats that decrease swelling, lower cholesterol, and make blood platelets less sticky. When blood platelets are less sticky they are less likely to form clots.  It is being promoted and used for heart disease, high levels of certain blood fats (triglycerides), high cholesterol, high blood pressure, stroke, cancer, osteoarthritis, depression, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and painful menstrual periods.

However at this point there is insufficient evidence that krill is effective for any of these conditions.  More scientific studies and evidence are needed. WebMd had a special precautions and warnings regarding krill:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of krill oil during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.


Additionally there can be an environmental issue with krill harvesting, as the National Geographic has reported that krill stocks have dropped an alarming 70%.  The reason for this is not known, but since it is an important source of food for so much marine life, it may be unwise to begin large-scale harvesting of krill for human consumption.

At this point the science points toward fish oil or for vegetarians, flax seed oil.

Benefits of Superfoods

Many health experts consider any whole food that is low in calories and has a high nutrient density or above-average nutritional benefits as a superfood.

These nutritional benefits vary greatly depending upon the particular superfood, but according to the American Cancer Society (ACS), many of these antioxidant-rich foods may help reduce your risk for fatal diseases like cancer. In fact, according to the 2011 ACS Guidelines for Nutrition and Physical Activity for Cancer Prevention, a third of the annual cancer deaths in the United States are caused by poor diet and lack of adequate physical activity.

If you're looking to improve your health, it's best to stay away from highly processed foods devoid of important macro and micronutrients. When you're at the grocery store, shop the outside aisles to avoid the pre-packaged foods high in glycemic load, calories, unhealthy fats and preservatives.

One sign of high nutritional content when it comes to produce is color. Choose brightly-colored fruits and vegetables and you can't go wrong.

Blueberries are loaded with disease-fighting antioxidants, known to help alleviate the damage done by inflammation. Other benefits come in the form of ellagitannin and anthocyanin, both of which are believed to be effective against certain types of cancers, including breast and esophageal cancers.

Red bell peppers contain 11 times more beta-carotene than green bell peppers and also give you 240 percent of your recommended daily value of vitamin C.

Watermelon, refreshing as well as appealing, delivers significant amounts of lycopene, a carotenoid present in many superfoods. A recent study led by food scientists at Florida State University even suggests that watermelon can be an effective weapon against pre-hypertension, a precursor to cardiovascular disease.

Red grapes contain phyto-nutrients offering broad antioxidant protection and a variety of antioxidants, including anti-inflammatory benefits as well as resveratrol, which is linked to many heart health benefits. Red grapes also contain many vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, A, K, carotenes, and B-complex vitamins.

Fish is full of protein and low in saturated fat. But one of the biggest health benefits is its omega-3 fatty acids, which supports cardiovascular, cognitive, and vision-health. Fish also improves insulin sensitivity, helping build muscle and decrease belly fat. The American Heart Association recommends eating two servings of fish (particularly fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, herring, lake trout, sardines, and albacore tuna) each week.

Apples are full of antioxidants and antioxidant compounds such as flavonoids. Apples aid your digestion and have also been connected to neurological health. They’re also low-glycemic, helping you control your hunger. However, when eating that crisp sweet fruit, be sure to leave the skin on. The skin contains more fiber, quercetin and antioxidants than the rest of the apple. So when you reach for your “Apple a Day,” you can feel good about it!

Eggs are beneficial for eye health, due to their carotenoid content (specifically lutein and zeaxanthin). They are a good source of protein and all nine essential amino acids. They contain choline, a nutrient that helps regulate the brain, nervous, and cardiovascular systems. Eggs are one of the only foods that provide natural vitamin D. Eggs promote healthy hair and nails because of their high sulphur content and wide array of vitamins and minerals. They contain iron, B vitamins, and minerals like folate, which is recommended for pregnant women. A study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that eggs tended to satisfy obese and overweight subjects more than a bagel breakfast with an equal calorie count. An egg is not only low-glycemic, but it's also a super way to control your hunger.

Nuts contain plenty of protein, fiber, and healthy monounsaturated fats, which are needed for heart health. Nuts also contain an array of vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants. Walnuts contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, and almonds are a good source of protein, antioxidants, magnesium, potassium, calcium, iron, and vitamin E. Not only do nuts control hunger, but the health benefits of each individual nut are endless. Nuts make a super snack!

Yogurt is a digestive-friendly food and a great way to include probiotics, or “healthy bacteria,” in your diet to fight off bad bacteria in your digestive track. It’s also a good source of protein and other nutrients, including calcium and vitamins B-2, B-12, potassium, and magnesium. Choose protein-rich, low-sugar yogurts enriched with vitamin D for healthy bone benefits. Also, be sure the label says “live and active cultures.”

Avocados have more of the carotenoid lutein than any other commonly consumed fruit. They are also beneficial for eye health, and are considered the best source of vitamin E. They are high in beta-sitosterol — a compound that has been shown to lower cholesterol levels. This satisfying fruit also contains the heart-healthy B vitamin, folate. Last but not least, avocados contain monosaturated fats, which help in controlling hunger.

Anti-Cancer, a New Way of Life: review

Cancer changes life. I found this book while undergoing treatment for breast cancer.  After I had undergone a lumpectomy and radiation treatments, I wanted to learn more about cancer and more important, be a part of my own healing.

Dr. David Servan-Schreiber*, was a physician and scientist, wrote Anti-Cancer: A New Way of Life to share his experiences with cancer, and what he learned as a result of his ordeal. He was at the top of a successful career as a psychiatrist and research scientist when he discovered by chance that he had a malignant brain tumor. After receiving his unwelcome diagnosis and undergoing the treatment for disease, he found that his physicians could not answer many of his questions regarding what he might do to increase his own ability to fight the cancer.

His thesis is simple: All of us have cancer cells in our bodies, but not all of us will develop cancer.
What are the factors that contribute to the formation of this disease, and what if anything can we do to prevent cancer or discourage it if we already have it?

Dr. Servan-Schreiber shared his journey, research, and what he learned about diet, environment, emotions, stress and lifestyle and how these factors can influence the body's immune response.

He concluded that the causes of cancer are similar to the causes of other chronic diseases, including unhealthy diet high in sugar and fat, exposure to toxins and pollution, high stress lifestyle, lack of exercise, and the loneliness of modern life for many people.  His focus is holistic, looking at the connections between the body, mind and spirit.

I realized that I needed to make significant changes in my life. I had been living at a distance from my family that made it difficult to see them often, so I moved to where they live.

I was disappointed that Dr. Servan-Schreiber has no religious beliefs though, as I personally believe that religious faith can be a strong factor in health and well-being. But overall this is a positive, encouraging book.

The anti-cancer diet is based on the Mediterranean diet.  It is primarily plant-based, including 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. It is low glycemic, and also high in omega-3 foods.

Dr. Servan-Schreiber strongly recommended foods that are high in anti-oxidants, but he did not discuss nutritional supplements as a factor in getting enough anti-oxidants.

I found that trying to get enough anti-oxidants and omega-3 fatty acids through my diet alone was complicated.  So I also take a comprehensive nutritional supplements which include mega antioxidants, chelated minerals, and omega 3 fatty acids.

Adopting the anti-cancer diet and lifestyle along with taking nutritional supplements daily has markedly improved my health, given me more energy and greater immunity to colds and flu.

*David Servan-Schreiber (April 21, 1961 – July 24, 2011)^[1] was a French physician, neuroscientist and author. He was a clinical Professor of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.^[2] He was also a lecturer in the Faculty of Medicine of Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1. (from Wikipedia)

The Amazing Health Benefits of Green Tea

Drinking green tea provides amazing health benefits. Green tea has been used as a medicine in China for over 4000 years. Asian countries where green tea is widely consumed have lower rates of cancer, arteriosclerosis and heart disease than western countries where green tea is not a common beverage.
There are three main varieties of tea: black, green and oolong, but green tea is more popular in Asia than its fermented cousins.
"Green tea (Camellia sinesis) is made from unfermented leaves and reportedly contains the highest concentration of powerful antioxidants called polyphenols. Antioxidants are substances that scavenge free radicals -- damaging compounds in the body that alter cells, tamper with DNA (genetic material), and even cause cell death. Free radicals occur naturally in the body, but environmental toxins (including ultraviolet rays from the sun, radiation, cigarette smoke, and air pollution) also give rise to these damaging particles. Many scientists believe that free radicals contribute to the aging process as well as the development of a number of health problems, including cancer and heart disease. Antioxidants such as polyphenols in green tea can neutralize free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent some of the damage they cause." --from an article at University of Maryland Medicine website.