To protect against colorectal cancer, women should be sure to get enough calcium from dairy foods like milk, cheese, or yogurt.
And to better their odds, drinking less alcohol and avoiding beef and processed meat helps, too.
Researchers in London in a new study tracked more than 500,000 women for 16 years, analyzing their dietary habits and health outcomes.
During the study, about 12,000 of the women developed colorectal cancer, allowing the researchers to dig through the data for specific risk factors.
Milk drinkers had notably lower cancer risk, as did those who consumed dairy products such as yogurt. Other nutrients found in dairy foods, like riboflavin, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, also showed protective benefits.
Alcohol, on the other hand, was a standout risk factor. Those who reported downing about two drinks every day had a 15% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. And each daily serving of red or processed meat was tied to an 8% higher risk.
There are big differences in colorectal cancer between regions, with higher rates in wealthier areas like the United States, Europe, and Japan, compared with lower rates in parts of Africa and South Asia.
However, when people move to countries with higher rates, within a decade their risk begins to match those of others in their new home. Researchers believe that points to lifestyle factors like diet playing a key role.
No food is a magic bullet against disease, of course. But scientists say calcium might help prevent cancer by binding to harmful substances in the digestive system, promoting healthy cells in the colon, and reducing inflammation.
So, if you want a nightcap, ladies, make it a milk.