A recently published study in the JAMA Network Open medical journal reveals that higher calcium intake may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, regardless of the source of calcium. This study provides a significant finding by highlighting the positive association between calcium supplementation and digestive health.
Led by Dr. Semi Zouiouich from the National Cancer Institute in the US, the research analyzed data from over 471,000 individuals aged 50-71, collected through a large-scale national survey. As reported by Medical Xpress, the volunteers were divided into five groups based on their calcium intake from various sources such as diet or supplements.
Remarkably, the group with the highest calcium intake showed a 29% reduced risk of colorectal cancer compared to the group with the lowest calcium intake. This finding is notable, especially considering that colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of death, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The study found a 29% reduced risk of colorectal cancer in the group with the highest calcium intake compared to the lowest group
Calcium supplementation is not only simple but also safe when incorporated into your daily diet. Calcium-rich foods include dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt, as well as fish, seafood, beans, nutritional seeds, and dark leafy greens such as spinach and kale. If necessary, one can also opt for supplements or medications, but it is advisable to consult a doctor to ensure appropriate dosage, especially when managing underlying health conditions.
According to recommendations from the National Institutes of Health in the US, the required daily calcium intake varies with age groups. For individuals aged 51-70, which corresponds to the age group of volunteers in the study, men require approximately 1,000 mg/day, while women need 1,200 mg/day. Adolescents aged 14-18 need, on average, 1,300 mg/day, adults aged 19-50 require 1,000 mg/day, and those over 70 should increase their intake to 1,200 mg/day. It is important to note that these values represent the total calcium intake from all sources consumed during the day, including both food and supplements.
These research findings not only emphasize the importance of calcium in our diet but also offer an effective preventive approach against the deadly disease of colorectal cancer.