A new study has found a link between milk consumption and an increased risk of developing cancer.

The research, which was conducted over a 20-year period, looked at the eating habits of tens of thousands of people and found a significant association between milk intake and cancer incidence.

The study

The study, which was published in the International Journal of Cancer, followed more than 45,000 men and women aged between 45 and 74, who were all participants in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC).

Participants were asked about their milk consumption habits at the beginning of the study and were followed up on an average of 15.3 years later.

The research found that those who consumed higher amounts of milk had a greater risk of developing breast, colorectal, and lung cancers than those who drank lower amounts.

For example, women who drank three or more glasses of milk per day had a 39% increased risk of breast cancer compared to those who drank less than one glass per day. Similarly, those who drank at least 2.5 glasses of milk per day had a 66% increased risk of colorectal cancer compared to those who drank less than 1.5 glasses per day.

The link between milk and cancer

The link between milk consumption and cancer risk is not entirely understood, but researchers suggest that it could be due to a number of factors. One possibility is that milk contains hormones that could stimulate the growth of cancer cells.

Another theory is that milk consumption could increase levels of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), which has been linked to an increased risk of several cancers.

There is also some evidence to suggest that milk intake could be linked to inflammation in the body, which is a known risk factor for cancer.

The proteins in milk, particularly casein, have been shown to increase inflammation in some people, which could lead to the development of cancerous cells.

What does this mean for milk drinkers?

The findings from this study do not mean that milk should be entirely avoided, but rather that consumption should be moderated. The study authors suggest that drinking no more than one glass of milk per day could help to reduce cancer risk.

It is important to note that this research is observational rather than definitive, which means that it is not possible to say for certain that milk consumption directly causes cancer.

However, the findings do add to a growing body of evidence that suggests a link between the two.

Alternative sources of calcium

If you are concerned about your calcium intake, there are plenty of alternative sources that do not carry the same cancer risks as milk. Dark leafy greens, such as kale and spinach, are high in calcium, as are almonds, sesame seeds, and tofu.

Consuming these foods as part of a balanced diet can help to ensure that you are getting enough calcium without the added risk of cancer.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that milk consumption could be linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

While the link is not definitively proven, it is worth considering reducing your milk intake and finding alternative sources of calcium. The findings also highlight the importance of continued research into the impact of diet on cancer risk.