(NaturalHealth365)  Colorectal cancer rates are climbing among millennials and Generation Z.  Some attribute this trend to the growing consumption of unhealthy processed foods.   In contrast, others highlight sedentary lifestyles as a contributing factor to the rise in colorectal and other cancers.

However, the true underlying cause might be relatively unknown to many: gut bacteria.  Recent research published in eBioMedicine suggests a connection between gut bacteria and the increased incidence of colorectal cancer in young individuals.

Is gut bacteria to blame for the significant increase in colorectal cancer?

The study linked above examines the differences in the microbial composition of tumors between patients with young-onset colorectal cancer and those with average-onset colorectal cancer.  The findings suggest that there are distinct microbial profiles associated with young-onset colorectal cancer tumors compared to average-onset colorectal cancer tumors. 

Specifically, young-onset colorectal cancer tumors showed higher microbial diversity and were enriched with certain microorganisms such as Akkermansia and Bacteroides, while average-onset colorectal cancer tumors had higher abundance of other microbes like Bacillus, Staphylococcus, and Fusobacterium.

Furthermore, the study found correlations between microbial profiles and various tumor characteristics such as tumor location, stage, and patient obesity.  Importantly, certain microbial abundances, particularly Fusobacterium and Akkermansia, were linked to overall survival in young-onset colorectal cancer patients.

Overall, these findings provide insights into the potential role of microbial dysbiosis in the development and progression of young-onset colorectal cancer.  Identifying specific microbial candidates associated with young-onset colorectal cancer could have implications for developing preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic strategies targeting the microbiome.

The obvious must be said: Correlation does not indicate causation

There are lingering questions about the behavior of bacteria within tumors and why certain species thrive in such environments.  However, the study’s authors firmly believe that the association between specific gut microbes and colorectal cancer is genuine and concerning.  While there’s no conclusive evidence proving these bacteria directly cause the increase in colorectal cancer cases, there appears to be a significant correlation.

Further research is necessary to deepen our understanding of these differences and develop innovative approaches for preventing and treating colorectal cancer in young adults.  Looking ahead a few years, it’s plausible that analyzing patients’ gut microbiota could aid doctors in detecting early signs of cancer in young individuals.

Crafty ways to boost your gut health

Beyond the suggestion of regular screenings for colorectal cancer, which are recommended for individuals aged 45 and older but also encouraged for younger adults, there are various steps you can take to promote gut health and greatly lower your risk of developing colorectal cancer.

Consider incorporating a probiotic and a prebiotic into your daily supplement routine to support a healthy balance of gut bacteria.  While meals high in factory-farm meat and alcohol may be tempting, it’s advisable to limit their consumption as they have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.

Instead, focus on consuming a fiber-rich diet, including foods like organic apples, raisins, prunes, lentils, and dark leafy greens.  Additionally, incorporating fermented foods like sauerkraut into your diet can also benefit gut health.  In addition, you can try some miso soup or raw kombucha – a delicious fermented and carbonated drink, helps regulate gut bacteria, promoting a more balanced microbiota and potentially reducing the likelihood of colorectal cancer.

The key takeaway is that by making dietary adjustments and prioritizing gut health, you can proactively maintain overall well-being and significantly reduce your risk of colorectal cancer.

Sources for this article include:

Thelancet.com
Livescience.com
Yalemedicine.org