Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. It affects both men and women and can be difficult to detect in its early stages.
However, there are certain things you can do to reduce your risk of colon cancer, including taking certain pills. Here are some of the pills known to reduce the risk of colon cancer:.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is a B vitamin that is essential for cell growth and division. It has been shown to reduce the risk of colon cancer when taken in high doses. The recommended daily allowance of folic acid is 400 micrograms per day for adults.
However, studies have shown that taking 1,000 to 2,000 micrograms of folic acid per day can reduce the risk of colon cancer by up to 25%. Folic acid can be found in leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, and fortified cereals. It can also be taken as a supplement.
Calcium
Calcium is essential for strong bones, but it also plays a role in reducing the risk of colon cancer. Studies have shown that taking calcium supplements can reduce the risk of colon cancer by up to 12%.
The recommended daily allowance of calcium is 1,000 milligrams per day for adults. However, studies have shown that taking 1,200 to 2,000 milligrams of calcium per day can reduce the risk of colon cancer. Calcium can be found in dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and supplements.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is important for calcium absorption and overall bone health, but it also plays a role in reducing the risk of colon cancer. Studies have shown that people with low levels of vitamin D are more likely to develop colon cancer.
The recommended daily allowance of vitamin D is 600 to 800 international units per day for adults. However, some studies have shown that taking up to 2,000 international units of vitamin D per day can reduce the risk of colon cancer. Vitamin D can be found in fatty fish, egg yolks, and supplements.
Aspirin
Aspirin is a common pain reliever, but it may also reduce the risk of colon cancer. Studies have shown that taking a low dose of aspirin (75 to 100 milligrams per day) can reduce the risk of colon cancer by up to 22%.
However, aspirin can have side effects, including bleeding and stomach ulcers. Therefore, aspirin should only be taken under the supervision of a doctor.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, are commonly used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. They may also reduce the risk of colon cancer. Studies have shown that taking NSAIDs can reduce the risk of colon cancer by up to 40%.
However, NSAIDs can have side effects, including bleeding and stomach ulcers. Therefore, NSAIDs should only be taken under the supervision of a doctor.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your digestive system. They can be found in certain foods, such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut. They can also be taken as supplements.
Some studies have shown that probiotics can reduce the risk of colon cancer. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of probiotics on colon cancer.
Conclusion
Colon cancer is a serious and potentially deadly disease. However, there are things you can do to reduce your risk of colon cancer, including taking certain pills.
Folic acid, calcium, vitamin D, aspirin, and NSAIDs can all reduce the risk of colon cancer. Probiotics may also have a role in reducing the risk of colon cancer. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements or medications for colon cancer prevention.