A large UK study has found further evidence that a diet rich in calcium, equivalent to consuming a glass of milk a day, may help reduce the risk of bowel cancer. The study, conducted by Oxford University and Cancer Research UK, analyzed the diets of over half a million women over a period of 16 years.

Key Findings:

1. Calcium and Protective Effect:
   • The study concluded that an additional 300 mg of calcium per day, equivalent to a large glass of milk, can lower the risk of bowel cancer by 17%.
   • Calcium-rich foods, such as dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), dark leafy greens, bread, and non-dairy milk alternatives, have a protective effect.
   • The study suggests that calcium may help protect against bowel cancer by binding to bile acids and free fatty acids in the colon, reducing their potentially carcinogenic effects.
2. Other Protective Foods:
   • Foods like breakfast cereals, fruits, whole grains, carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamin C also showed a slight reduction in the risk of bowel cancer.
3. Risk Factors:
   • The study reinforced previous findings that excessive consumption of alcohol and processed meats increases the risk of bowel cancer. Specifically:
     • Drinking an additional large glass of wine daily increases the risk by 15%.
     • Consuming 1 oz more red or processed meat daily, such as a slice of ham, increases the risk by 8%.
4. Calcium Sources:
   • Dairy products, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, are the primary sources of calcium in the UK diet.
   • Non-dairy alternatives, such as soya and rice drinks, white bread, nuts, seeds, and fruits like dried figs, curly kale, and canned sardines, also provide calcium.

This study highlights the potential protective role of calcium, particularly from dairy sources, in reducing the risk of bowel cancer. However, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet and lifestyle remains critical in cancer prevention. Along with calcium intake, cancer charities emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption.

Incorporating a range of calcium-rich foods into your diet, while being mindful of other dietary and lifestyle factors, could significantly contribute to reducing the risk of bowel cancer.