Discovery: yogurt reduces cancer risk 🥄

A recent study suggests that regular consumption of yogurt could reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. This discovery highlights the role of beneficial bacteria present in yogurt, particularly Bifidobacterium, in the prevention of this disease.

Researchers analyzed data from over 150,000 participants, revealing that those who consumed yogurt at least twice a week had a 20% reduced risk of developing proximal colorectal cancer. This protection is believed to be linked to the presence of Bifidobacterium in tumors, a bacterium commonly found in yogurt.


The study, published in Gut Microbes, was conducted by a team of researchers from Mass General Brigham. They used data from two large American cohort studies, followed since the 1970s and 1980s, to establish a link between yogurt consumption and reduced risk of colorectal cancer.

The results show that Bifidobacterium was present in about 30% of the tumor tissues of patients with colorectal cancer. Researchers observed a significant association between yogurt consumption and a lower incidence of Bifidobacterium-positive tumors, particularly in proximal colon cancer.

Scientists hypothesize that long-term yogurt consumption could alter the gut microbiome, thereby reducing the risk of colorectal cancer. However, they emphasize the need for further research to confirm these findings and explore the underlying mechanisms.

This study opens new perspectives in understanding the links between diet, gut microbiome, and cancer risk. It underscores the importance of a healthy diet in the prevention of chronic diseases, including colorectal cancer.

Researchers continue to explore how dietary habits and environmental exposures influence cancer development. This work could lead to personalized prevention strategies, based on individual microbiome, to reduce the burden of colorectal cancer.

What is the gut microbiome?

The gut microbiome is the collection of microorganisms living in our digestive system. These microorganisms, mainly bacteria, play a crucial role in our health, influencing digestion, immunity, and even our mood.

Beneficial bacteria, such as Bifidobacterium, help maintain the balance of the microbiome, preventing the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria. A healthy microbiome is essential for good intestinal health and can protect against various diseases, including colorectal cancer.

Recent research shows that our diet has a direct impact on the composition of the microbiome. Fermented foods, such as yogurt, are particularly beneficial as they contain probiotics, live bacteria that enrich our gut microbiome.

How can yogurt prevent colorectal cancer?

Yogurt contains probiotics, live bacteria that can positively influence our gut microbiome. Among these bacteria, Bifidobacterium has been associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer.

These beneficial bacteria can strengthen the intestinal barrier, reducing inflammation and preventing the growth of cancer cells. Additionally, they can alter the intestinal environment in a way that inhibits tumor formation.

The recent study suggests that regular consumption of yogurt, particularly containing Bifidobacterium, could be an effective strategy to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, especially in the proximal colon. However, further research is needed to fully understand these mechanisms and their potential in cancer prevention.