Washington - Saba:
Following impressive research findings that a glass of milk is beneficial in reducing the risk of cancer, another recent study has highlighted the potential benefits of consuming yogurt in reducing the risk of certain types of cancer—particularly colorectal cancer.
Science Alert reports that statistics show that the number of new colorectal cancer cases among people under the age of 55 has doubled globally in recent years, with diagnoses increasing by nearly 20%. As an oncology consultant, many have asked me how to reduce their risk of this disease.
Evidence reveals that regularly consuming yogurt may have a protective effect against some aggressive forms of colorectal cancer by modifying the gut microbiome, the natural bacteria that live in the intestines.
The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in overall health, affecting digestion, immune function, and even cancer risk.
Yogurt contains live cultures of beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus, which can help maintain this balance.
The study, which included 150,000 participants followed for decades, found that eating two or more servings of yogurt per week was associated with a lower risk of a specific type of aggressive colorectal cancer, which occurs on the right side of the colon and is associated with worse survival outcomes compared to cancers on the left side.
The study explored several mechanisms to explain how yogurt may reduce cancer risk, the most important of which is modulating the gut microbiome.
The probiotic cultures in yogurt contain beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus, which can enhance the diversity and balance of gut bacteria, potentially reducing inflammation and levels of cancer-causing chemicals.
In addition to its potential anti-cancer effects, yogurt offers numerous other health benefits. It is rich in calcium, which supports bone density and may reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Regular yogurt consumption has also been associated with lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
Experts advise that when adding yogurt to your diet, it's important to choose the right type. Plain, unflavored yogurt is preferred to avoid added sugars that can negate the health benefits.
Some types of yogurt, such as Greek yogurt, contain higher protein and lower sugar, while full-fat varieties typically contain less processed ingredients.
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