Study: Low Folate Intake Increases Colorectal Cancer Risk

Low folate intake appears to increase risk for colorectal cancer, according to researchers at King's College in London.

In a study of 28 patients with colorectal cancer, 35 patients with precancerous adenomatous polyps of the colon, and 76 controls, the researchers found that those with cancer had a 26 percent lower folate status than those without cancer.

In contrast, "high folate status was associated with decreased risk for cancer," the researchers reported in the journal Gastroenterology.

Folate is used by the body for the production and maintenance of new cells and guards against certain birth defects. Sources of folate include green leafy vegetables, beans, peas, orange juice and liver. Folic acid, the synthetic form of the vitamin, is often added to cereals.

Other Sources: Gastroenterology