Experts have suggested that an easy-to-find dessert could potentially reduce the risk of developing a common type of cancer. Most supermarkets stock it, and it’s relatively cheap in most cases.
A study led by researchers from Mass General Brigham discovered that people who consumed a certain quantity of yoghurt each week had a higher level of protection against bowel cancer than others. The results seem to suggest that this dairy treat does something to alter the gut microbiome, bolstering your internal defences.
In the study, over 151,000 people’s diets were tracked for many years. Participants were monitored since 1976 through repeated questionnaires about lifestyle factors and disease outcomes.
The research also examined the consumption of plain and flavoured yoghurt among the participants. It was found that a group who consumed at least two servings of yoghurt per week had lower rates of proximal colorectal cancer.
Tissue samples from participants diagnosed with colorectal cancer were also analysed, measuring the amount of Bifidobacterium DNA (a bacterial species present in yoghurt) in the tumour tissue. Out of the 3,079 cases of colorectal cancer identified within the two study groups, data on Bifidobacterium levels was available for 1,121 cases.
Of these, 346 cases (31%) were found to be Bifidobacterium-positive. Meanwhile, 775 cases (69%) were Bifidobacterium-negative, reports the Mirror.
Researchers have not established a significant link between long-term yoghurt consumption and a reduced risk of overall colorectal cancer. However, those who ate two or more servings of yoghurt weekly had a 20% lower incidence rate of these specific tumours.
Co-senior author Tomotaka Ugai, MD, PhD, said: “It has long been believed that yoghurt and other fermented milk products are beneficial for gastrointestinal health. Our new findings suggest that this protective effect may be specific for Bifidobacterium-positive tumours.”
Bowel cancer is more common than some might think, with Cancer Research UK reporting approximately 44,100 diagnoses each year. This makes it the fourth most prevalent cancer in the country. It doesn’t discriminate, affecting both genders and any age group – but it is predominantly older people that develop the condition.
While the study’s results are encouraging, relying solely on yoghurt consumption may not significantly reduce one’s cancer risk. The likelihood of developing bowel cancer is influenced by various factors, including age, genetic history, and chronic inflammatory bowel conditions like Crohn’s disease.
It’s believed that practising a healthy diet and following a positive lifestyle could help lower your risk of bowel cancer. But there is never a 100% risk-free approach. Key strategies for maintaining good health include ensuring regular adequate sleep, adhering to a balanced diet, frequent exercise, minimising intake of processed food, staying well-hydrated, giving up smoking and moderating alcohol consumption.
Away from cancer, yoghurt has been proven to help with many health issues. It has been found to reduce the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis, aid in weight loss, and boost metabolism.