Recent research conducted by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health highlights the potential benefits of yogurt consumption in reducing certain types of colorectal cancer. The study analyzed data from over 132,000 participants originating from two long-running studies: the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS) and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study (HPFS). Both studies predominantly followed white health professionals, providing a comprehensive database for investigation.
The study revealed that individuals who consumed two or more servings of yogurt weekly exhibited a 20% lower risk of developing proximal colorectal cancer containing the bacterium Bifidobacterium. This form of cancer constitutes approximately one-third of all colorectal cancer cases. Among the participants who developed colorectal cancer, 31% were Bifidobacterium-positive, while 69% were Bifidobacterium-negative. Importantly, the research did not establish a general connection between regular yogurt consumption and a reduced risk of colorectal cancer overall.
The researchers meticulously analyzed data from over 150,000 individuals, considering factors such as sugar, alcohol, fiber intake, total calorie consumption, and yogurt consumption. Their findings suggested that yogurt serves as a valuable source of probiotics capable of directly influencing the gut microbiome.
“Consuming yogurt regularly may contribute to a balanced gut microbiome,” – Berookim
This balance is crucial because a healthy gut microbiome could potentially mitigate inflammation or dysbiosis, both associated with the development of colon cancer.
“Having a balanced microbiome could potentially reduce inflammation or dysbiosis, which is known to play a role in the development of colon cancer.” – Berookim
While the study underscores the potential benefits of yogurt, experts caution against varieties laden with added sugars. These additives may offset the health advantages provided by probiotics and other nutrients present in yogurt.
“Many flavored yogurts contain added sugars, which can offset the health benefits of the probiotics and other nutrients,” – Berookim
The research emphasizes that regular yogurt consumption could bolster the population of beneficial bacteria within the gut.
“Regular consumption of yogurt could increase the population of beneficial bacteria” in the gut. – Peyton Berookim
Published in the journal Gut Microbes, the study's findings suggest that yogurt consumption might positively impact gut health and potentially lower colorectal cancer risk. However, researchers emphasize the necessity for further studies to establish a direct causal relationship between yogurt intake and reduced cancer risk.
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