Scientists found that people who ate this treat regularly were less likely to develop the disease compared to others who rarely did
Experts claim that eating a cheap and simple dessert could cut the risk of developing a common cancer. The research, which spanned decades, made the link recently that might have you adding this to your shopping lists.
A study led by investigators from Mass General Brigham found that people who ate a certain amount of yoghurt during the week were more protected against colorectal cancer, also known as bowel cancer, than others. The findings suggest that the dairy treat altered the gut microbiome.
In the research, experts followed over 151,000 people for decades and tracked their diet. Participants were followed since 1976, answering repeated questionnaires about lifestyle factors and disease outcomes.
It also checked on the amount of plain and flavoured yoghurt they ate. The scientists discovered that one group who ate at least two servings of yoghurt per week were tied to lower rates of proximal colorectal cancer.
The researchers also assessed tissue samples for participants with confirmed cases of colorectal cancer, measuring the amount of Bifidobacterium DNA (a bacterial species found in yoghurt) in tumour tissue. Scientists identified 3,079 cases of colorectal cancer within the two study groups.
Out of these, they had data on Bifidobacterium levels for 1,121 cases. Among these, 346 cases (31%) were found to be Bifidobacterium-positive, while 775 cases (69%) were Bifidobacterium-negative.
Although the researchers did not find a significant link between long-term yoghurt consumption and overall colorectal cancer risk, they did find a connection in tumours that were Bifidobacterium-positive. Participants who consumed two or more servings of yoghurt per week had a 20% lower incidence rate of Bifidobacterium-positive 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 not as rare as some people may believe. According to Cancer Research, around 44,100 people are diagnosed in the UK each year, making it the fourth most common type of cancer in the UK.
Both men and women can get bowel cancer. It can strike at any age, but it is more common in older people.
Although the results of the study look promising, eating yoghurt alone may not reduce your risk entirely of cancer. The risk of developing bowel cancer depends on many factors, including age, family history and any chronic bowel inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn’s disease.
It is thought that managing diet and lifestyle factors could also play a crucial part in preventing bowel cancer. The best ways to maintain good health include getting enough sleep regularly, following a balanced diet, exercising often, limiting processed food, drinking plenty of water, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol.