Several animal studies suggest that there is a true cause and effect between folate status and the development of colorectal cancer. There are biologically plausible mechanisms by which folate may exert this benefit.
Cancer is believed to arise from as a result of DNA damage that is inadequately repaired.
Randomized clinical trials are being conducted to definitively determine if supplemental folic acid can protect against the development of precancerous polyps. Only twenty percent of Americans consume the minimal five servings per day of folate rich fruits and vegetables. For example, fast food meals do not provide a single serving of salad food ingredients. Consumers interested in a lower risk of neural tube defects, premature births, low birth weight infants, and now precancerous colon polyps and colorectal cancer can benefit by increasing their daily intake of folate containing foods.