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 on Your Plate?

March is National Nutrition month.

 

Did you know, the healthy plate or food pyramid has changed?

These foods contain the nutrients you need for health:

4 foods to eat most often:

 1. vegetables

 2. fruit

 3. whole grains

 4. lean protein, including fish, poultry, dried beans and nuts.

 Limit red meat and cheese.  

Make half your plate fruits and vegetables.    Fruits and veggies are rich in  anti-oxidants and minerals your body needs. The USDA recommends eating 5 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables per day.  Choose red, orange and dark-green vegetables such as tomatoes, sweet potatoes, broccoli, and green leafy vegetables.   Brightly colored fruits like berries are rich in antioxidants. Add fruit to meals as part of main or side dishes and for snacks or dessert. Make half your grains whole grains, such as whole wheat bread and brown rice. Cut back on foods high in solid fats, added sugars and sodium.  Eat less cookies, cake, candy, sweet drinks, pizza and fatty meats.  Avoid bacon, cold cuts and other processed meats. Drink plenty of water-- six to eight glasses each day.

If you find it a challenge to fit eat five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables every day, a multivitamin can help you to get the full range of nutrients more consistently.

USANA makes two multivitamins-- Essentials and HealthPak, which offer complete and balanced minerals and anti-oxidants.

HealthPak is Essentials plus Active Calcium and AO Booster, packaged in convenient AM and PM packets.