SupplementsFolate (Vitamin B9)
Vitamins
Folate is a B vitamin essential for copying and repairing DNA correctly. Getting enough folate from food is associated with lower colorectal cancer risk, making it an important part of a protective diet.
- Needed for accurate DNA replication and repair — a key defense against cell damage.
- Adequate folate from foods is linked to lower colorectal (and possibly breast) cancer risk.
- Found abundantly in leafy greens, beans, lentils and citrus.
Prioritise food folate: dark leafy greens, beans, lentils, asparagus and citrus. Take supplements only if advised (e.g., pregnancy).
High-dose folic acid supplements show mixed results and are not clearly protective — food folate is preferred. Some chemo drugs interact with folate, so never start folate supplements during treatment without your oncologist's approval.
Learn more from trusted sources
- American Cancer Society — NutritionEating well during and after cancer treatment.
- American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR)Evidence-based cancer-prevention diet and lifestyle guidance.
- National Cancer Institute — NutritionNutrition in cancer care (U.S. NIH).
- World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF)Global research on diet, activity and cancer.
- Cancer Research UK — Diet & CancerManaging diet and eating problems during treatment.
This information is educational and may support wellbeing — it is not medical advice and never a promise of a cure. Always consult your oncology care team before changing diet, supplements, or medication.