Long-term Multivitamin Use May Lower Colon Cancer Risk

by Michael Greger, M.D.

Last month, a massive study of almost 150,000 people was published and found that those who reported they regularly took multivitamin supplements were less likely to be diagnosed a decade later with colon cancer.[6] Breaking down the various nutrients, it's thought that perhaps it was the increased calcium and vitamin D intake from supplements that was responsible for the reduced risk.[7] Note that dairy products were NOT found to be protective.

The Harvard School of Medicine recommends that everyone take a multivitamin (containing vitamins B12, D, E, B6, and folate), although the Institute of Medicine has not made such a recommendation. If anyone isn't getting enough color or variety in their diet (like at least DAILY dark leafy greens) a multivitamin may be useful. I compare the pros and cons of all of the vegan multivitamins currently on the market in a handout on my website.

REFERENCES

[6] American Journal of Epidemiology 158(2003):621.
[7] Cancer Causes Control 14(2003):1.