Daily Nut Consumption Linked to 50% Lower Colon Cancer Risk, new Research Suggests
London, UK – October 12, 2025, 08:17 GMT - A daily handful of nuts may substantially reduce the risk of developing colon cancer, according to a groundbreaking study published today in Gut. Researchers at Imperial College London found individuals who regularly consumed nuts exhibited a 50% lower incidence of the disease compared to those who rarely or never included them in their diet.The findings offer a simple, accessible dietary modification with possibly profound implications for preventative healthcare.
Colon cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with an estimated 1.1 million new cases diagnosed and over 694,000 deaths reported globally in 2020, according to the World Health Organization. This new research provides compelling evidence that incorporating nuts into a regular diet could be a powerful tool in mitigating risk, especially given the disease’s often-late diagnosis and aggressive progression. The study analyzed data from over 26,000 participants over a period of 10 years, meticulously tracking dietary habits and health outcomes.
The protective effect was observed across various nut types, including walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, cashews, and peanuts. Researchers hypothesize the benefit stems from a combination of factors: the high fiber content promoting gut health, the presence of unsaturated fats reducing inflammation, and the abundance of bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties.
“Our findings suggest that even a modest, regular intake of nuts can have a ample impact on colon cancer risk,” stated Dr. Eleanor holmes, lead author of the study.”this is particularly encouraging as nuts are readily available and relatively inexpensive, making this a practical dietary recommendation for a broad population.”
Further research is planned to investigate the optimal quantity and frequency of nut consumption for maximum benefit, as well as to explore the specific mechanisms driving this protective effect. The team also intends to examine whether nut consumption impacts the recurrence rate of colon cancer in individuals previously diagnosed with the disease.