Some vitamins found in food have an effect on genes that are linked to cancer and wellness. As we know, cancer starts in cells and as tumours grow we become ill because of their impact on our wellbeing. This latest study could show how our diet can impact on changes in these genes so we could reduce the chances of getting the disease.
Start Small
Everyday our genes are hard at work making new cells, but sometimes the process goes wrong and instead of creating the correct cells, cancerous ones are made. Experts believe the genes start acting in this way because of small changes in molecules that are called epigenetic marks. These marks have now been linked with bowel cancer development, because they are more likely to be present when someone has been diagnosed with the condition. Now, a study by the Institute of Food Research has shown a link between certain vitamins and a reduction in the marks, indicating that if you eat them you could protect yourself from bowel cancer.
The Vitamins
The research looked at the bowel cells of healthy people and monitored epigenetic marks, cancer development rates and their diets. The results showed that these marks were very dependent on age, showing that how old you are is an important factor in bowel cancer development. But, the research also showed that people who ate more selenium and vitamin D had fewer marks – hinting that these minerals have an anti-ageing effect on genes. Also, the marks were more likely to occur if people were overweight, also indicating that a healthy diet can prevent bowel cancer. The researchers called for more evidence for the link between folates and B vitamins, as those who had higher levels of folates in their blood also had more epigenetic marks. The experts explained that there are many health benefits to these vitamins, but perhaps there’s an optimum amount we need to take to protect our wellbeing, and that it needs more research.
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