Exploring Coffee Consumption: Does It Decrease Colorectal Cancer Risk?
According to the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF), research indicates a potential association between coffee consumption and a decreased risk of colorectal and bowel cancer.
A study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that drinking four cups of coffee per day may be linked to a 32% lower risk of colorectal cancer recurrence among participants with stages 1 through 3 of the disease.
The study suggests that coffee may have a protective effect by:
- decreasing oxidative stress
- promoting beneficial gut bacteria
- inhibiting tumor growth
- offering protection against nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Additionally, previous studies have shown an association between coffee drinking and a lower risk of colorectal cancer compared to non-coffee drinkers.
Interestingly, caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee may have different impacts on rectal cancer risk. While caffeinated coffee seems to be linked to an increased risk of rectal cancer, there is no such association with colon cancer. This suggests that the body may process these types of coffee differently.
People can potentially reduce their risk of colorectal cancer through various means, including:
- regular physical activity
- a nutritious diet
- avoiding tobacco and alcohol use
Research into the health benefits of coffee consumption and colorectal cancer risk is ongoing, and further studies may reveal additional mechanisms behind this observed association.
Further reading:
- Can coffee cause cancer?
- Cancer-fighting foods to reduce cancer risk
- Diet and cancer risk: What to know
- The International Journal of Cancer published a study suggesting that drinking four cups of coffee daily might lower the risk of colorectal cancer recurrence in stages 1-3 by 32%.
- Research indicates a potential association between coffee consumption and a decreased risk of not only colorectal cancer but also other medical conditions such as diseases of the bowel or colon.
- Science continues to explore the link between coffee and colorectal cancer, with some findings suggesting that coffee, both caffeinated and decaffeinated, may impact rectal and colon cancer risk differently.
- To maintain overall health and wellness, people can reduce their risk of colorectal cancer by actively engaging in regular physical activity, adhering to a nutritious diet, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol use.
