Can Calcium Prevent Disease?

Calcium is essential for the body’s bones. But this mineral has a big role in preventing other health problems, too! Calcium has been associated with lowering blood pressure (and the risk of high blood pressure). Researchers have noted that a vegetarian diet that is high in minerals (including calcium, magnesium, and potassium), high in fiber, and low in fat tends to lead to lower blood pressure levels. Clinical studies have also looked at the effect of an increased calcium intake on blood pressure. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health tested different types of … Continue reading

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. It is a cancer that develops in the colon or rectum; more than ninety percent of all cases develop in people age fifty and older. Your risk of developing colorectal cancer increases as you age. If everyone age fifty and older had a regular colorectal cancer screening test (like a colonoscopy), more than one third of the deaths from colorectal cancer could be avoided! Both men and women are at risk for this kind of cancer. As soon as possible after your fiftieth birthday, you should … Continue reading