Got milk? If so, you may be helping to prevent colon cancer. The largest study to date investigating the link between diet and colorectal cancer found that an additional 300 milligrams (mg) of calcium daily, the amount found in a glass of milk, is associated with a 17% decrease in the risk for colorectal cancer. The findings revealed that foods and drinks rich in calcium, such as milk and yogurt, were protective.

According to a University of Oxford news release, researchers analyzed the health records of 542,000 women who took part in the Million Women Study for an average of 16 years to investigate the link between 97 foods and nutrients and the risk of colorectal cancer.

The key findings included:

• Among the strongest protective factors was calcium intake. Women who consumed more calcium-rich foods showed a significantly lower risk of developing colorectal cancer. The benefit appeared consistent whether the calcium came from dairy products or other sources.

• Dairy milk and other products such as yogurt demonstrated similar protective effects, says Study Finds. Several nutrients commonly found in dairy — including riboflavin, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium — also showed benefits.

• Alcohol consumption stood out as the strongest risk factor. Even one glass of wine per day was linked to a 15% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. The risk appeared particularly pronounced for rectal cancer.

• Red and processed meat were among the foods that increased the risk of colorectal cancer. Even an ounce more meat daily was associated with an 8% higher risk.

According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and the fourth leading cause in women in the U.S., but it’s the second most common cause of cancer deaths when numbers for men and women are combined.