Recent research has uncovered a common beverage with potential cancer-fighting benefits—and it’s not tea or coffee. While green tea and coffee have long been studied for their protective effects against various cancers, a new study from the University of Oxford sheds light on an unlikely yet familiar drink that may reduce your risk of colorectal cancer: milk.

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Oxford Study Finds Milk May Lower Colorectal Cancer Risk

Researchers at Oxford University analyzed dietary data from over 500,000 women as part of a long-term study examining the relationship between 97 food products and nutrients and the risk of developing colorectal cancer over a 16-year period.

The results, recently published in Nature Communications, showed that consuming just one large glass of milk per day (approximately 300 mg of calcium) may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by up to 17%.

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Why Milk May Be Protective

1. Calcium: The Main Factor

The protective link between milk and colorectal cancer appears to be driven largely by its calcium content. Calcium binds with bile acids and free fatty acids in the digestive tract, neutralizing them and promoting their elimination from the body. This process helps protect the intestinal lining from potential damage and inflammation that can lead to cancer.

Calcium also supports the body's natural defenses by promoting apoptosis, the programmed death of abnormal cells before they can turn cancerous.

2. Vitamin D: A Cancer-Fighting Nutrient

Milk is often fortified with vitamin D, which has well-documented anti-cancer properties. It helps regulate cell growth, supports immune function, and plays a role in preventing the uncontrolled cell division typical in cancer development.

3. Lactose and Gut Health

The lactose in milk may promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that produce butyrate—a short-chain fatty acid with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. Butyrate helps nourish colon cells and may suppress tumor formation in the gut.

4. Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)

A separate study published in 2021 highlighted the role of linoleic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid in milk, which also shows potential cancer-inhibiting effects.

Taken together, these findings strongly suggest that including milk as part of a balanced diet may play a role in reducing colorectal cancer risk.

Dr. Keren Papier, the lead author of the study, noted:
“This is the most comprehensive single study ever conducted on the relationship between diet and colorectal cancer. Our findings highlight the potential protective role of calcium-rich foods like milk in preventing this disease.”

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Colorectal Cancer on the Rise Globally

Colorectal cancer is becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide. Experts believe this trend is largely driven by poor dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles, and exposure to carcinogens through processed foods.

Dr. Papier also warned against the overconsumption of alcohol, red meat, and processed meats—all of which have been linked to a higher cancer risk. For instance:

• Two glasses of alcohol per day can increase the risk of colorectal cancer by 15%.

• Consuming 30 grams of red or processed meat daily may raise the risk by 8%.

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Healthy Diet = Powerful Cancer Prevention

According to Sophia Lowes, Senior Health Information Manager at Cancer Research UK:

“Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers globally. Encouraging people to take proactive steps to prevent it through dietary and lifestyle changes is crucial.”

She added that maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco, and eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet are among the most effective ways to lower cancer risk. This includes:

• Reducing consumption of alcohol, processed meat, and red meat

• Increasing intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

• Including milk and dairy as part of a well-rounded, cancer-protective eating plan

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8 Powerful Cancer-Fighting Foods You Should Eat Regularly

Beyond milk, research continues to highlight the role of certain natural foods in helping the body fight off cancer. Here are 8 everyday superfoods you should consider adding to your diet:

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1. Sweet Potatoes

Known for their cancer-inhibiting effects, sweet potatoes have been shown to suppress up to 98% of cancer cell activity when cooked.

• Especially purple sweet potatoes have strong antioxidant properties.

• They contain anthocyanins, compounds known to block tumor growth and promote healthy cell function.

• Tip: Eat one medium-sized purple sweet potato at lunch or dinner regularly.

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2. Eggplant

Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to treat tumors, eggplant contains a variety of bioactive compounds:

• Solanine, cucurbitacin, and choline have demonstrated anti-cancer effects.

• Eggplant is rich in protein and calcium—3x more than tomatoes.

• Both the skin and stem of eggplant have been used for medicinal purposes.

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3. Broccoli

A star in the cruciferous vegetable family, broccoli contains sulforaphane, which boosts the body’s detox enzymes and helps eliminate carcinogens.

• Protective against: Breast, liver, prostate, lung, bladder, and stomach cancers

• Tip: Lightly steam or stir-fry to retain nutrients.

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4. Radishes

High in vitamin C, enzymes, and compounds that neutralize nitrosamines (a known carcinogen).

• Boosts immune function and promotes detox.

• Improves lung function and reduces inflammation.

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5. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reduced risk of:

• Endometrial, lung, stomach, and prostate cancers

• Tip: Cooked tomatoes provide more lycopene than raw.

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6. Pumpkin

Often referred to as a “miracle food,” pumpkin is rich in:

• Vitamin A (in large amounts)

• Vitamin C, calcium, and fiber

• Tryptophan, which helps inhibit cancer-promoting substances.

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7. Pomegranate

Pomegranate juice contains polyphenols and flavonoids that have been shown to:

• Weaken prostate cancer cells

• Inhibit the spread (metastasis) of tumors

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8. Turmeric

One of the most powerful natural cancer-fighting spices, thanks to curcumin, which:

• Inhibits tumor growth

• Reduces inflammation

• Acts as a strong antioxidant

• May help prevent or manage cancers of the breast, colon, liver, ovary, bladder, lung, and lymph nodes

Tip: Add turmeric to soups, teas, or daily meals. Combine with black pepper for enhanced absorption.

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Final Thoughts: Prevention Starts on Your Plate

Modern science is increasingly confirming what traditional medicine has known for centuries: diet plays a critical role in cancer prevention.

From the calcium-rich benefits of milk to the antioxidant power of colorful vegetables and fruits, the food choices you make every day matter more than you might think.

Small changes—like adding a glass of milk to your diet or swapping processed snacks for sweet potatoes or broccoli—can have a big impact on your long-term health.

If you're looking for a natural way to support your body and reduce your cancer risk, start with your next meal.