Ever since a major study torpedoed the notion that fiber fights colon cancer, experts have been on the lookout for effective alternatives. Aspirin and calcium have turned up as possible contenders, and now it looks like there‘s another: selenium.

Researchers analyzed data from more than 1,700 people involved in previous colon cancer studies, all of whom had had precancerous polyps removed. They discovered that people with the highest blood levels of selenium were less likely to develop polyps again.

It’s too early to guarantee selenium’s effectiveness, says Beth Jacobs, an assistant professor of epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of Arizona, in Tucson, and lead author of the study. “And we don’t believe all colon cancers arise from the same pathway,” she adds. “It’s possible that for some people, calcium or aspirin might be a better cancer preventer.”

Most Americans already get enough selenium from their diet, according to a government study, despite past concerns that poor soil conditions might be depleting it from foods. Still, if you have a history of colon cancer, it’s worth checking with a practitioner to see if you might need a supplement.