A recent study indicates that regular consumption of yogurt may be associated with a reduced risk of developing a specific type of colorectal cancer. Researchers examined data from two major long-term studies: the Nurses’ Health Study, which has tracked over 100,000 female nurses since 1976, and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study, monitoring 51,000 male health workers since 1986.
The study explored the relationship between yogurt intake and the incidence of colorectal tumors, particularly focusing on Bifidobacterium-positive tumors. Findings revealed that individuals who consumed two or more servings of yogurt each week showed a 20% lower rate of these specific tumors compared to those who did not include yogurt in their diets.
Bifidobacterium is a beneficial strain of bacteria that resides in the gut microbiome and is commonly found in yogurt. The researchers noted that those who regularly consumed live bacteria-containing yogurt had a significantly lower risk of developing colorectal tumors that tested positive for Bifidobacterium. This link suggests that incorporating yogurt into one’s diet could be a proactive measure in reducing colorectal cancer risk.
The study's findings add to the growing body of evidence supporting the health benefits of yogurt. Full-fat, traditional Greek yogurt, in particular, is noted for its potential to boost bone health and aid in muscle mass development. Regular consumption of such yogurt may also lessen the risks of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and some mental health disorders.
Despite these promising results, the researchers cautioned that their study did not investigate whether Bifidobacterium or other elements of the gut microbiome play a direct causative role in this relationship. Furthermore, they did not explore the potential mechanisms that might explain how yogurt consumption could influence colorectal cancer risk.
In discussing the implications of their findings, one researcher emphasized the importance of Bifidobacterium. She stated, “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.”
While yogurt is acknowledged as a healthy addition to a balanced diet, not all varieties are equally beneficial. Flavored and fruit yogurts often contain high amounts of added sugar and other ingredients that may undermine their healthfulness. One researcher advised caution, saying, “While live, natural yogurts are a good addition to a balanced diet, not all yogurt is good for you.”
The study underscores the need for further research to clarify the relationship between yogurt consumption and colorectal cancer. While it indicates a correlation between regular yogurt intake and lower rates of proximal colorectal cancer positive for Bifidobacterium, more work is required to understand any potential causative roles of Bifidobacterium and the mechanisms involved.
“There are different subtypes of Bifidobacterium in the human gut and different strains have different functions,” one researcher noted. “This study did not explore whether there is a causative role for the microbiome or Bifidobacterium or any potential mechanisms involved.”
Despite these limitations, the findings suggest that including yogurt as part of a healthy diet may provide additional protection against certain forms of colorectal cancer. However, experts stress that there is no established guideline regarding how often individuals should consume yogurt to achieve these benefits.
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