Vitamin D supplements may cut breast cancer risk

May 4, 2010 in Cancer Prevention, Nutrition Topics in the News, Vitamins, Minerals, Supplements, Women's Health

Vitamin D supplements may cut breast cancer risk

Toronto researchers are reporting in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition that taking vitamin D in supplement form may offer some protection against developing breast cancer.

While women's dietary intake of vitamin D and calcium didn't seem to influence their risk of breast cancer, before or after menopause, women taking a vitamin D supplement did experience a slightly lower risk.

Researchers surveyed more than 3,000 breast cancer patients and 3,400 healthy controls about their intake of food and supplements.

The researchers found no relationship between overall vitamin D intake and breast cancer risk; nor was there any association between overall calcium intake and risk of the disease.

However, women who reported taking at least 400 international units of vitamin D every day were 24 percent less likely to develop the disease.

Past studies have found a link between low levels of vitamin D and higher rates of breast cancer.  Researchers note that further research is needed to investigate the relationship between large doses of vitamin D and calcium and breast cancer risk.

For more information on how to add vitamin-D rich foods to your diet, and how to choose the best supplement, check out Leslie Beck's book, Foods that Fight Disease.

All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.