A diet that is rich in folate from sources like green leafy vegetables, fruits and whole grains and low in alcohol lowers the risk for colorectal cancer, according to a new study of 1,953 patients with colorectal cancer from Italy (Source: International Journal of Cancer 2002;102:545-547). Dr. Carlo La Vecchia, the study's lead author, said the incidence of the disease was 40% higher for patients who were heavy drinkers and had diets deficient in folate and the essential amino acid methionine.

About 129,000 Americans, most older than 50, are diagnosed each year with colorectal cancer, and about 56,000 die each year. It is the second most common cancer killer, just behind lung cancer.

In the most recent study, patients with colorectal cancer tended to have diets containing less folate and methionine, and were heavier drinkers than patients who were cancer free. Light drinking meant less than one glass of wine daily, while heavy drinking was equivalent to at least two 12-ounce beers a day. The main sources of folate in the Italian diets were green leafy vegetables, whole grains, and liver. Orange juice, beans and peas are also good folic acid sources.

Methionine levels were studied because the amino acid plays a key role in regulating the availability of folic acid in the body. Previous studies have shown that high levels of methionine reduce colon cancer risk in people with a family history of the disease. Fish, beans, garlic and sunflower seeds are good all natural sources of methionine.In the current study, the researchers noted that low levels of methionine were slightly associated with colorectal cancer, but the combination of low methionine and low folate had an even stronger association with cancer risk.

Other studies have looked at the impact of eating fruits and vegetables on polyp development and proliferation. Polyps are intestinal growths that can eventually develop into colon cancer. Researchers suspect that folate may protect against certain cancers, such as breast and colon, due to the nutrient's role in DNA synthesis and repair.

Folic Acid is the most common nutrient deficiency in America. It is also now known to be associated with rising levels of Homocysteine, which has been found to be a principal cause of heart disease. To make sure you are getting enough folic acid, make sure you get at least 3 servings of vegetables, with one being green leafy vegetables, and two fruits daily. Additionally, I recommend taking a Multi-Vitamin supplement that contains at least 800 mcg of Folic Acid daily.