Experts are calling for increased consumption of dairy products, warning that avoiding them – often for “trendy” reasons – can have negative health consequences, including increasing the risk of colon cancer.
According to studies, consuming a glass of milk a day can reduce the risk of developing this disease by about 17%. However, Dr Rupa Parmar points out that more and more patients are avoiding dairy products without having a true diagnosis of intolerance, thus putting their health at risk.
She notes that the term “dairy intolerance” is often used without medical basis and that, in many cases, tests show that patients do not suffer from this condition. Meanwhile, the increased use of plant-based alternatives to milk has become increasingly common, while average milk consumption has fallen significantly over the past few decades.
One of the main reasons why dairy products are considered protective is related to their calcium content. This mineral helps bind bile acids and fatty acids in the intestine, reducing their potentially carcinogenic effects.
A study conducted by the University of Oxford analyzed data from over 500 women and found that consuming about 300 mg of calcium per day — the equivalent of a large glass of milk — was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of this type of cancer. Foods like milk and yogurt were associated with a lower likelihood of being diagnosed over a 16-year period.
However, the researchers point out that not all dairy products have the same effect – for example, consumption of cheese or ice cream did not show a significant impact on reducing risk.
Experts point out that calcium can also be obtained from other sources, including fortified products or foods like tofu. On the other hand, high consumption of alcohol, red meat and processed foods is associated with an increased risk of colon cancer.
Doctors recommend a healthy lifestyle as the most effective way to prevent it, including a balanced diet, physical activity, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol.
The importance of early diagnosis is also emphasized. Symptoms such as persistent changes in bowel function, the presence of blood, unexplained weight loss, or abdominal pain should be checked immediately by a doctor.
Colon cancer is among the most common forms of cancer and cases are increasing, especially among young people. However, when detected early, the survival rate is very high, exceeding 90% in the early stages. /GazetaExpress/
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