Lower your risk of colon cancer with vitamin D

Many people get their vitamin D through exposure to the sun

Researchers have confirmed a link between vitamin D and a decreased risk of colon cancer. Previous studies have linked the vitamin to lower rates of colon cancer, but this recent study further confirms that relationship. According to a report at MedicineNet.com, researchers in Europe examined the relationship between the vitamin and colon cancer.

“…those with the highest blood levels of vitamin D had a nearly 40% decrease in colorectal cancer risk than those with the lowest levels.”

The study was based on information from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer Study (EPIC), which included 520,000 people from 10 Western European countries between 1992 and 1998. Of that group, 1,248 were diagnosed with colon cancer. Researchers evaluated diet/lifestyle questionnaires and blood samples as part of the study.

How much vitamin D do you need?

The Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institutes of Health provides detailed information on the consumption of vitamin D. According to the ODS, recommended daily allowances of the vitamin are as follows:

• Adults aged 19-50:  200 IU
• Adults aged 51-70:  400 IU
• Adults aged 71 and over:  600 IU

Children or persons with medical conditions such as osteoporosis, pregnancy or lactation may have unique vitamin D recommendations. Consult your family physician for further questions about how much vitamin D is appropriate for you.

Sources of vitamin D

• Supplements – Vitamin D is available in supplement form. However, more is not better, and can in fact be toxic. Be sure to read labels to be sure that you consume only the amount that is recommended.
• Sunshine – According to the ODS, many people get enough vitamin D simply through exposure to the sun. However, weather conditions such as cloud cover and smog make the exact amount of vitamin D absorption difficult to measure.
• Fortified products such as milk, breakfast cereals, yogurt or orange juice provide an excellent source of vitamin D. Be sure to read packaging information to find out exactly how much vitamin D is provided with each serving size.
• Fish such as tuna, mackerel or salmon.