In a world where health advice often seems to come with a side of complexity, it’s refreshing to hear that something as simple as a daily glass of milk could have a significant impact on our well-being. For Australians over 50, who are increasingly vigilant about their health, the latest findings from a comprehensive UK study offer a glimmer of hope in the fight against bowel cancer.
The study, conducted by Oxford University and Cancer Research UK, followed the diets of over half a million women for 16 years. The results? Those who included an extra 300mg of calcium in their diet each day – roughly the amount found in a large glass of milk – saw a 17% reduction in their risk of developing bowel cancer. This is a substantial finding, considering bowel cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer in Australia.
But it’s not just dairy milk that’s making waves in the world of cancer prevention. The study also highlighted the protective effects of dark leafy greens, bread, and non-dairy milks fortified with calcium. This is particularly good news for those who are lactose intolerant or choose to follow a vegan lifestyle, as it suggests there are multiple pathways to obtaining this potentially life-saving nutrient.
On the flip side, the research provided further evidence that excessive consumption of alcohol and processed meats could increase the risk of bowel cancer. Drinking an additional large glass of wine, or consuming 20g of alcohol daily, was associated with a 15% increase in risk, while eating just 1oz more of red and processed meats each day, such as a slice of ham, could up the risk by 8%.
Understanding the role of calcium in our bodies is crucial. Beyond its well-known benefits for bone health and dental strength, calcium is now being recognised for its potential to protect against certain cancers. It’s thought that calcium can bind to bile acids and free fatty acids in the colon, reducing their carcinogenic effects.
For our readers who are keen to boost their calcium intake, there’s a plethora of options beyond the dairy aisle. Soya and rice drinks, white bread, nuts, seeds, dried figs, curly kale, canned sardines, and lactose-free milk are all excellent sources of calcium. Incorporating these into your diet can be a delicious and varied way to help safeguard your health.
Bowel cancer remains a significant concern, with around 44,000 new cases diagnosed in Australia each year. While most cases occur in older adults, there’s a concerning trend of increasing rates among those under 50. Experts suggest that poor diet and obesity may be contributing factors.
Symptoms of bowel cancer can include changes in bowel habits, bleeding from the bottom, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or breathlessness. It’s crucial to consult a doctor if you notice any of these signs.
While this study was observational and cannot definitively prove causation, its scale and consistency with previous research give weight to its findings. Nutrition experts like Prof Janet Cade from the University of Leeds affirm that overall diet can influence the risk of colorectal cancer. Meanwhile, Prof Tom Sanders from King’s College London emphasises the protective potential of moderate milk consumption and the risks associated with excessive alcohol intake.
Bowel Cancer Australia echoes the sentiment that lifestyle changes can make a difference. Dr Lisa Wilde from the charity reminds us that every 12 minutes, someone is diagnosed with bowel cancer in Australia, but up to half of all cases could be prevented with healthier lifestyles.
We’d love to hear from you – have you made dietary changes that have improved your health? Do you have tips for incorporating more calcium into your diet? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Also read: Why is our diet so bad, and how did it get this way?
