A magnesium-rich diet prevents colon cancer

A magnesium-rich diet may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer in women, according to American scientists.

A magnesium-rich diet, such as eating spinach, can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer in women. (Image: urbanext.uiuc.edu/TTO)

These findings come from a study conducted on American women in Iowa. Scientists Aaron R. Folsom and Ching-Ping Hong from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis studied 35,196 women aged 55-69 from 1986 to 2002.

After the study, 1,112 women developed colorectal cancer. Subsequent in-depth research found that while a magnesium-rich diet did not combat rectal cancer, it significantly reduced the risk of colorectal cancer: women consuming a magnesium-rich diet had a 23% lower risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to those with a low-magnesium diet.

Previously, research from Swedish scientists indicated that a high intake of magnesium reduces the risk of both colorectal and rectal cancers. The reason for the difference between these two studies remains unclear, but it can be asserted that magnesium helps lower the risk of colorectal cancer.

According to the study authors, magnesium helps reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by decreasing the effects of oxidation, enhancing insulin absorption, and reducing the proliferation of cancer cells in the colon.

Magnesium is abundant in green vegetables like spinach, where magnesium is at the center of chlorophyll. Nuts, seeds, and some grains are also good sources of magnesium. A varied diet will generally provide sufficient magnesium for the body.

Magnesium in over-processed foods is often significantly reduced.

Water can provide magnesium, but the amounts are usually small and vary by water source. Nutritional studies often do not account for this magnesium, which may lead to an underestimation of the body’s magnesium needs.

T.VY (According to Reuters)