This March, in honor of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, we need to talk about a subject many adults would prefer to avoid. While you might not want to face it, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. among cancers that affect both men and women. Sadly, more than 50,000 Americans die from colorectal cancer each year. Many cases could be prevented through regular screening. Basic screening tests (known as colonoscopies ) do save lives. Physicians recommend regular screening for adults between the ages of 50 and 75.
How Vitamins May Help Prevent Colorectal Cancer
In addition to getting screened and following best practices like being physically active and keeping a healthy weight, you may be able to reduce your risk for colorectal cancer by incorporating these vitamins into your daily routine.- Cherry Blueberry (Free Radical Fighting Antioxidants): Antioxidants are known to play a strong role in reducing cancer risk. By fighting off free radicals, these phytonutrients – which occur naturally in many fruits – can be a tremendous boon to health.
- Turmeric with Curcumin: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, curcumin may be especially helpful for reducing risk of colorectal cancer. Since curcumin is not fully absorbed into the blood, some remains in the digestive system, which can be helpful for fighting colon cancer.
- Ultra Lecithin (Soy Lecithin): Soy may help prevent colorectal cancer, according to some studies. Soy seems to be most effective in this purpose among postmenopausal women.
- Vitamin D-3, Calcium and Magnesium: This three-in-one combo isn't just good for your bones. It also may help prevent the development of cancer. Calcium may protect against colon polyps, while Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium.
- Folic Acid: Some studies have suggested a correlation between cancer and folic acid deficiencies. Whether or not similar results are produced in future studies, it is known that folic acid helps with DNA synthesis and repair.