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Vitamin D shown to have protective effect against colon cancer

Category: Vitamin D Deficiency-Diagnosis and Treatment

Individuals who are at risk for colon cancer may benefit from seeking vitamin D testing. New research out of Spain shows that the nutrient may provide a significant degree of protection from the disease.

Vitamin D has been linked in several studies to a reduced risk of multiple forms of cancer, including breast and prostate. The new study adds colon cancer to the growing list of ailments from which the nutrient provides protection.

As part of the study, the Vall d’Hebron researchers found that higher levels of the vitamin block the action of a particular protein that causes malignant colon cells to become aggressive and develop into colon cancer.

The researchers said that the effect was so profound that it may be possible to develop anti-cancer medication based on the action of vitamin D. While this will require a significant amount of further investigation, it represents a promising field of study.

Sufficient levels of vitamin D can be obtained by spending as little as 10 minutes in the sun as well as consuming fortified foods, like milk or orange juice.