A new study shows that the lack of vitamin D sets up a situation in colon cells in which DNA is damaged and colon cancer more easily occurs. Those who ignore their digestive problems or “treat” them with drugs to suppress their symptoms are asking for trouble. There is no substitute for good digestive health. This new study indicates that if digestive problems are going on and there is a lack of vitamin D, then the lack of vitamin D can instigate colon cancer.

The new discovery centers on a protein in intestinal epithelial cells called beta-catechin. This protein normally helps epithelial cells bond together with other cells to form a protective barrier between the contents in your gut and the physical structure of your digestive tract. However, when vitamin D is lacking, then things go wrong and beta-catechin builds up in cells. This build up causes DNA damage and can set in motion the process of colon cancer.

The research suggests that being vitamin D adequate in the first place is the best way to prevent this problem. This is because once the problem starts, then vitamin D receptors within colon cells are damaged, making it difficult to turn the problem off.

Prevention of life-threatening colon problems has a lot to do with how you manage your colon health on a day in and day out basis. One factor to keep in mind is being sure to consume adequate vitamin D.