By Anthony Dwiers

Role of Folate In Colon Cancer

Folate is a food nutrient known for its importance in promoting proper brain development of the fetus. Likewise, it aids in red blood cell production, Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) synthesis and cellular development as well. This nutrient can be obtained mostly from foods like peanuts, beans, asparagus, spinach and beef liver. There are other food sources too but they don't contain as much folate as those foods enumerated previously. Synthetic supplements are available as well in the form of folic acid. Most of them are in tablet preparation while others are used to fortify foods.

Moreover, science experts identified another advantage in including folate in the dietary intake. They associated folate with colon cancer prevention. However, folate intake is only beneficial when it is taken by people who have no existing cancerous condition and not even a precancerous state like having benign colon polyps or tumor at any part of the body.

In several research findings, it has been found that colon malignancy progresses with high folate intake. The growth and spread (metastasis) of cancer cells are enhanced by the said vitamin because of its role in DNA synthesis and cell formation. Besides, the DNA commands cells to perform mitosis or cell division. This implies that folate will promote the reproduction of both the normal and defective cells in malignant conditions, particularly colon cancer.

Therefore, health experts conduct health history taking and laboratory examination of gastrointestinal cells before encouraging people to increase intake of foods rich in folate and even synthetic supplements of the said nutrient. This is due to the fact that folate has two opposing effects when it comes to carcinogenesis. Individuals who have no predisposition to colon cancer are recommended to consume adequate amount of folate because the outcome is prevention of colon cancer. However, those people who have family members or relatives with cancer history and even those with cancer cell precursors like benign tumors or abnormal colon tissues are advised to lessen folate intake. In fact, some of the chemotherapeutic drugs simply contain antifolate substances. Inhibiting the metabolism of folate produces inhibitory effect on cancer cell multiplication. The principle is the same in reducing folate dietary consumption. Overall, the timing in folate intake and the dosage of the nutrient is crucial to gain a positive result.

The immedicable status of cancer as a global health concern is yet to come to an end. Medical studies are heading towards the right direction. As of this moment, chemotherapy, radiation and other palliative treatments are available to relieve the signs and symptoms of malignant diseases like colon cancer and delay its metastasis. Moreover, other innovations in medical science provide means to prevent development of any cancerous condition. One of the latest researches has identified folate and its ability to prevent colon cancer. This marks that sooner or later, cancer can become curable.

The information offered through this article is NOT a replacement for specialized treatment and should not be used for diagnosing or providing treatment for a health difficulty or disorder. Be certain to consult your medical provider should you have or presume you might have a health problem.

Colon Health is our primary focus at GI for Life. Founded by board licensed gastroenterologists committed to developing Colon Health Supplements based on the most current evidence for supporting digestive, intestinal and Colon Health. Makers of the supplement ColoVite which is for overall Colon Health, Probiotic and enzyme supplements for Intestinal Health, and Liposomal Liquid Vitamin D3 for overall well being. Visit our website to see our entire line of high quality natural colon health products.

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