(NaturalHealth365)  Research has shed light on the potential risks associated with food additives known as emulsifiers, commonly used to enhance texture and prolong the shelf life of processed foods.  Recent studies indicate a potential link between these emulsifiers and the development of colorectal cancer.

It appears that emulsifiers present in food can disrupt the balance of intestinal bacteria, leading to increased inflammation.  This inflammatory environment within the gut can create conditions that promote the growth of cancer.  Unfortunately, too many people are never told about the details – which would shock any person concerned about their health.

The impact of intestinal microbiota on colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer holds a grim position as the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths among both men and women in the United States.  It is projected to claim approximately 52,550 lives in the year 2023 alone.  Yet, sadly, the Western medical world continues to tout the idea that cancer is a “mystery,” unsure about the cause.

In recent years, the scientific community has become increasingly aware of the significant role that intestinal microbiota play, not only in maintaining immune system health but also in the development of colorectal cancer.  Intestinal microbiota refers to the vast and diverse population of microorganisms that reside within the human intestines.

These microscopic inhabitants have been found to play a crucial role in various physiological processes, including digestion, nutrient absorption, and even the regulation of the immune response.  Simply put, a healthy gut equals a healthy life!

Connecting the dots between intestinal microbiota, inflammatory bowel disease, and colorectal cancer

Intestinal microbiota not only plays a crucial role in diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, which are the most common forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) but also contributes to more serious colon issues, including various forms of cancer.

In addition to IBD, low-grade inflammation of the colon, more prevalent than IBD itself, is closely associated with metabolic diseases.  This inflammation is linked to alterations in the composition of gut microbiota, which has also been implicated in the development of colorectal cancer.  Emerging studies suggest that food additives like dietary emulsifiers can contribute to the increased risk of compromised immune function and cancer cell growth.

In fact, the rise in colorectal cancer cases since the mid-20th century coincides with the widespread use of emulsifiers as food additives in processed foods.  The altered intestinal microbiota is one of the notable hallmarks of colorectal cancer and colon cancer, creating an environment in the gut that provides an ideal setting for the initiation and proliferation of cancer cells.

Tips to support a healthy gut

Some of the most common emulsifiers used in food processing are polysorbate 80 and carboxymethylcellulose.  Eating foods that contain these food additives can lead to an inflamed condition within the gut over time.  This can, in turn, increase the odds of colorectal cancer in addition to inflammatory bowel disease.

These study results further underscore the health hazards of eating too many processed foods instead of natural, organic choices.  The findings also highlight the importance of gut health and gut bacteria equilibrium – which can be enhanced with probiotics or probiotic-containing foods.

It is also a reminder to take steps to minimize inflammation in the colon and throughout the body.  Eating natural, organic foods with plenty of fiber can go a long way in supporting gut health and colon health.

To further support a healthy gut, consider the following tips:

Prioritize prebiotic-rich foods:  Include foods such as organic onions, garlic, bananas and asparagus into your diet.  These foods contain prebiotic fibers that nourish beneficial gut bacteria.

Manage stress levels:  Chronic stress can negatively affect gut health.  Incorporate stress management techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies to support a healthy gut-brain connection.

Limit the use of antibiotics:  Overuse or unnecessary use of antibiotics can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria.  Only take antibiotics when needed and take probiotics afterward to restore healthy gut flora.  In many cases, a holistic doctor might even suggest taking natural antibiotics that don’t threaten gut health such as, organic honey, garlic or ginger.

Stay hydrated:  Drinking an adequate amount of clean water throughout the day supports optimal digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.  Aim to drink at least 6 – 8 cups (48 to 64 ounces) of water daily.

Include omega-3 fatty acids:  Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty (wild) fish, organic chia seeds, and flaxseeds have anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit gut health.  Incorporate these foods into your diet regularly.

By following these additional tips: avoiding the emulsifiers in processed foods; opting for natural, organic whole foods; supporting gut bacteria equilibrium with probiotics, and prioritizing an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fiber, you can greatly reduce your risk of many forms of cancer, especially in the colon.

Sources for this article include:

NIH.gov
Academic.oup.com
Aacrjournals.org
Eurekalert.org