Vitamin D shown to prevent and treat deadly cancer type, study finds

Vitamin D is a crucial nutrient that is well-known for its role in supporting bone health, muscle strength, and immune function. However, a new study published in the journal Nutrients has shed light on another potential benefit of this common vitamin – its ability to prevent and treat colorectal cancer.

Researchers from Semmelweis University in Budapest conducted a meta-analysis of 50 previous studies involving over 1.3 million participants to investigate the impact of vitamin D on cancer risk, immunity, and inflammation. The findings revealed that vitamin D plays a critical role in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer.

According to study author János Tamás Varga, PhD, low levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, the primary form of vitamin D, were associated with poorer cancer prognoses. Vitamin D was found to reduce inflammation, promote cancer cell death, inhibit tumor growth, and enhance immune response – all of which are crucial mechanisms in the pathophysiology of colorectal cancer.

Furthermore, vitamin D supplementation was shown to improve survival rates among patients with advanced-stage colorectal cancer. The researchers emphasized the importance of personalized dosages based on individual health conditions and current vitamin D levels to optimize the therapeutic efficacy of the vitamin.

While the American Cancer Society acknowledges the potential of vitamin D in lowering cancer risk, they caution that large studies have not definitively proven the effectiveness of vitamin D supplements in preventing colorectal polyps or cancer. Nonetheless, they recommend monitoring vitamin D levels and supplementing if necessary, especially for individuals at high risk of colorectal cancer.

The primary source of vitamin D is sunlight exposure, but it can also be obtained from dietary sources such as fatty fish and fortified foods like milk, orange juice, and cereals. For those who struggle to meet their vitamin D requirements through diet and sunlight, supplements are available as an alternative.

In conclusion, while vitamin D shows promise in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer, further research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and understand the specific role of genetic factors. Personalized treatment recommendations based on individual health conditions are essential to harness the full potential of vitamin D in cancer care.