Recent research from Oxford University has identified a common beverage that most people consume daily and which may help lower the risk of colorectal cancer. While previous studies have highlighted the potential anti-cancer benefits of tea and coffee, this new study focuses on milk and its remarkable health-protective properties.

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Milk – A Potential Shield Against Colorectal Cancer

Researchers analyzed data from over 500,000 women over a period of 16 years, examining the relationship between 97 different foods and nutrients and the risk of developing colorectal cancer.

The results showed that consuming one large glass of milk daily, containing roughly 300 mg of calcium, could reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by 17%. The primary protective effect comes from calcium, which binds with bile acids and free fatty acids in the intestines, forming harmless compounds that are excreted from the body. This process helps protect the intestinal lining and also promotes the elimination of abnormal cells.

Moreover, milk is a source of vitamin D, which has been shown to have anti-cancer properties by regulating cell growth and division. Lactose in milk supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that produce butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. Previous studies also suggest that milk contains linoleic acid, another compound known for its anti-cancer potential.

Dr. Keren Papier, the lead researcher, emphasized:
“Our study highlights the important role of milk and calcium-rich foods in maintaining health and preventing colorectal cancer. Small dietary changes, like including a daily glass of milk, can have a significant impact on long-term health.”

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Rising Rates of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is increasingly common worldwide. One of the main contributing factors is an unhealthy diet, including frequent consumption of alcohol, processed meats, and red meat. For instance, drinking two alcoholic beverages per day can increase the risk of colorectal cancer by 15%, while consuming 30 grams of red or processed meat daily can raise the risk by another 8%.

Sophia Lowes, Senior Health Information Director at Cancer Research UK, notes:
"Maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and following a balanced, nutrient-rich diet are among the most effective strategies to prevent colorectal cancer. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products like milk can significantly lower risk."

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Eight Foods That Act Against Cancer

1. Purple Sweet Potatoes – Rich in antioxidants, these potatoes have been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth. Studies suggest that consuming one medium-sized purple sweet potato daily may protect against early-stage cancer without harmful side effects.

2. Eggplant – Known for its cancer-fighting compounds, eggplants contain glycosides, cucurbitacins, and saponins. They are also rich in protein and calcium, with nutritional value three times higher than tomatoes in these aspects.

3. Broccoli – Contains sulforaphane, which boosts protective enzymes and helps the body eliminate carcinogens. It supports prevention of cancers such as breast, liver, lung, prostate, stomach, and bladder cancer.

4. Radishes – Contain compounds that neutralize nitrosamines, enhance immune activity, stimulate phagocytes, and help remove cancer cells. Rich in vitamin C and carotenoids, radishes are particularly effective at preventing cancer.

5. Tomatoes – High in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that inhibits the growth of cancer cells in the uterine lining, lungs, prostate, and stomach. Cooking tomatoes enhances lycopene absorption.

6. Pumpkin – Packed with vitamins A and C, calcium, fiber, and tryptophan, pumpkin helps suppress cancer-causing compounds, reduces cholesterol, and supports overall metabolic health.

7. Pomegranates – Contain phenylpropanoids, hydrobenzoic acids, flavonoids, and fatty acids that weaken prostate cancer cells and inhibit metastasis.

8. Turmeric – Contains curcumin, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin inhibits the growth and spread of cancer cells in breast, uterus, colon, liver, pancreas, lung, and blood cancers, while also supporting overall immune function. Adding turmeric to soups, teas, or cooking is an easy way to incorporate its benefits.

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Practical Recommendations

• Include milk and other calcium-rich foods in your daily diet.

• Eat plenty of colorful fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

• Limit consumption of alcohol, red meat, and processed foods.

• Incorporate turmeric and other spices with anti-cancer properties.

• Maintain a healthy weight and avoid smoking for maximum cancer prevention.

Even small, consistent dietary changes can significantly improve overall health, support the immune system, and reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer and other chronic diseases over time.

By following these guidelines, you can take simple yet effective steps toward long-term cancer prevention while also improving general well-being.