And its anti-inflammatory effects may be part of the reason.
Photographer: Brie Goldman, Food Stylist: Annie Probst, Prop Stylist: Joseph Wanek.
In a review of previously published studies, researchers focused on the relationship between vitamin D and colorectal cancer.
Photo:Photographer: Brie Goldman, Food Stylist: Annie Probst, Prop Stylist: Joseph Wanek. EatingWell design.
They published the review in April 2025 inNutrients.Lets break down their findings.
How Was This Study Conducted?
They also sought out cases where participants were given a vitamin D supplement as part of the study.
What Did It Show?
So what did these researchers find regarding vitamin D and colorectal cancer?
Polyps and adenomas are precursors to colorectal cancer and are commonly found and removed during colonoscopies.
Researchers found evidence that vitamin D can also help prevent polyps.
There were a few limitations to this review.
How Does This Apply to Real Life?
Unfortunately, vitamin D is a commonly deficient vitamin.
Vitamin D is called the sunshine vitamin because your body manufactures it with exposure to UVB raysaka sunshine.
In the warmer months, you should consider your skin cancer risk and balance it with sun exposure.
You also need to have enough skin exposure to make vitamin Dface, arms and legs.
Plus, pollution, darker skin and possibly sunscreen reduce sunlight absorption, reducing vitamin D production.
This can be done by requesting a blood test from your primary care practitioner.
When possible, spend time outside to catch some rays.
Being outdoors also hasmental health and mood benefitsall the better if your physical activity is performed outside.
2025:17(1351).
doi:10.3390/nu17081351
American Cancer Society.Key statistics for colorectal cancer.
Holick MF, Chen TC.Vitamin D deficiency: A worldwide problem with health consequences.Am J Clin Nutr.
87;4(10805-10865).
