In a compelling new study, researchers have uncovered a potential link between yogurt consumption and a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. Drawing from extensive data in the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study, this research tracked the health of over 100,000 female nurses since 1976 and 51,000 male health workers since 1986. The findings suggest that individuals who regularly consume yogurt may enjoy a significantly lower risk of developing certain types of colorectal tumors.
The study indicates that consuming two or more servings of yogurt per week may lower the risk of developing Bifidobacterium-positive colorectal tumors by 20%. Bifidobacterium, a beneficial strain of bacteria prevalent in the gut microbiome, may play a pivotal role in this association. However, while a correlation was observed, the study did not establish a direct causative relationship nor explore the specific mechanisms by which yogurt might influence cancer risk.
“This study suggests that yogurt consumption over time may protect against this specific type of colorectal cancer, potentially via changes in the gut microbiome. The strain of bacteria identified was Bifidobacterium, a bacterial species found in yogurt and also in the human gut.” – she
The research underscores the health benefits of yogurt, particularly those containing live bacteria. The study implies that the presence of Bifidobacterium could enhance the intestinal barrier by mitigating harmful inflammatory proteins such as tumor necrosis factor and interleukin 6. These proteins are known for their detrimental effects on gut health, potentially paving the way for tumor development.
“This study does not suggest that yogurt reduces Bifidobacterium in the gut; just the opposite. In fact, it highlights that Bifidobacterium is an important bacterial strain in yogurt that produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) in the gut and has anti-cancer properties through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting effects.” – she
Despite these promising findings, the researchers acknowledge that further investigation is needed to understand the exact mechanisms at play. The study did not explore whether Bifidobacterium or other factors in the microbiome exert a direct protective effect against cancer.
“While this study has shown a correlation between long-term consumption of yogurt and lower rates of proximal colorectal cancer positive for Bifidobacterium, more work is required to understand any causative role of Bifidobacterium and the mechanisms involved if so.” – she
Yogurt's health benefits extend beyond cancer prevention. Full-fat, traditional Greek yogurt has been linked to improved bone health, increased muscle mass, and a decreased risk of developing conditions such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and certain mental health issues. However, not all yogurts are created equal. Some flavored and fruit yogurts contain high levels of added sugars and other unhealthy ingredients.
“While live, natural yogurts are a good addition to a balanced diet, not all yogurt is good for you. Flavoured and fruit yogurts often contain high quantities of added sugar, and other added ingredients that are not healthful.” – she
There remains no exact recommendation for how frequently one should consume yogurt. However, given its potential health benefits, incorporating yogurt into a balanced diet could be advantageous.
“While there’s no exact recommendation for how often to eat yogurt,” – Costa
The study's findings suggest that integrating yogurt into one's diet could be another step towards reducing the risk of colorectal cancer. However, as with many dietary studies, these findings highlight an association rather than definitive causation.
“Endogenous bacterial species are of significant interest for their application in human health. This study provides new evidence about the potential benefit of yogurt (which contains live bacteria) in reducing risk of a certain subtype of colorectal cancer.” – she
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