Blog

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in men and women in the United States. However, recent studies suggest there may be an effective way to reduce one’s risk.

A team of researchers recently shared their exciting findings showing that eating greater amounts of vitamin D may help against developing colorectal cancer, particularly for those under age 50.

The team analyzed data from nearly 95,000 women participating in a long-term study about diet and lifestyle. They found that those with high amounts of vitamin D in their diets—particularly from dairy products—had a 50% lower risk of developing young-onset colorectal cancer than those with lower amounts of the vitamin.

Over the past decade, medical professionals have recorded a steady decline in colorectal cancer diagnoses. The decline has been attributed to the availability of effective screening and better adoption of lifestyle changes like healthy eating and exercise. However, that decline does not apply to younger people. In fact, colorectal cancer rates have been rising at an increased rate amongst people under 40. 

A Growing Concern

Academics and government experts have joined forces to solve the mystery of the rapid increase. However, the puzzle remains unsolved mainly. One of the most likely determinants is diet amongst this age group. The group of experts identified that in addition to not eating enough fruits and vegetables, this age group was deficient in vitamin D. 

Further exploring this matter, researchers looked at data broken down between vitamin D absorbed via dietary sources and vitamin D absorbed from a supplement. Shockingly, the results were more favorable among participants who absorbed vitamin D from dietary sources.

So, how can vitamin D be added to a diet?

Vitamin D is fat-soluble, which means that it doesn’t dissolve in water and absorbs better when paired with some kind of fat. Meaning it’s more effective to choose dairy products that aren’t nonfat as the fat in the dairy helps to facilitate the body’s absorption of vitamin D. However, sources other than dairy help the body meet its vitamin D quota. 

1. Salmon

Salmon is a popular fatty fish and an excellent source of vitamin D. On average, wild-caught salmon packs 124% of the daily recommended value (DV) per 100 grams. It is important to note that farmed fish often have less vitamin D; however, it still surpasses 25% of the DV on average. Check out a tasty salmon recipe here.

2. Egg Yolks

Eggs can hold a significant amount of vitamin D. Still, it can vary greatly depending on sun exposure and the vitamin D content of the chicken feed. When given the same meal, pasture-raised chickens that roam outside in the sunlight produce eggs with levels 3–4 times higher. On average, a typical egg yolk contains 5% of the DV. However, eggs from chickens given vitamin-D-enriched feed may have up to 7 times the DV! Try a tasty recipe to sneak some eggs onto the dinner plate here.

3. Mushrooms

Mushrooms are magical fungi that positively impact health in a variety of ways. Excluding fortified foods, mushrooms are the only good non-animal source of vitamin D. Like humans, mushrooms can synthesize this vitamin when exposed to UV light. However, mushrooms produce vitamin D2, whereas animals produce vitamin D3. While vitamin D2 helps raise blood levels of vitamin D, it may not be as effective as vitamin D3. Nonetheless, wild mushrooms are excellent sources of vitamin D2. In fact, some varieties pack up to three times the DV. Try a mushroom and vegetable pho here.

4. Fortified foods

Natural sources of vitamin D are limited, especially if you’re vegetarian or don’t like fish. Fortunately, some food products that don’t naturally contain vitamin D are fortified with this nutrient. Commonly fortified foods include cow’s milk, soy milk, orange juice, cereal, and oatmeal. Fortified foods can offer a significant percentage of the DV, but it is essential to check the label to understand how much vitamin D is available per serving. If using cereals to pack vitamin D, look for whole-grain fortified products.

Healthy Living in Action

A healthy diet can positively impact your risk of about 40% of common adult cancers. NFCR wants to help you start and stick to a healthy lifestyle to aid in cancer prevention. We encourage you to explore more of our Cancer-Fighting Lifestyle Resources on our Blog and on YouTube!

If you love creating new ways to incorporate cancer-fighting foods into your diet, consider participating in our National Nutrition Month Recipe Contest! In doing so, you have the chance to be recognized for your culinary ideas, and you help others in the cancer-fighting community. Visit our contest page here.

Additional Reads You May Enjoy:

Genetic Predisposition vs. Healthy Living: Which Impacts Cancer Risk More?

Celebrating Safely: What You Need to Know About the Genetic Risk of Alcohol-Related Cancers

Potatoes vs. Sweet Potatoes: Root Vegetables for Cancer Prevention

Stay connected with the cancer community! Receive NFCR’s monthly e-newsletter and blogs featuring stories of inspiration, support resources, cancer prevention tips, and more. Sign up here.