The relationship between diet and cancer risk is complex and influenced by genetics, environment, age, and microbial composition in the gut. While genetic mutations are out of our control, dietary habits remain a powerful and modifiable factor.
A Western diet high in red and processed meats, refined sugars, saturated fats, and ultra-processed foods can disrupt the gut microbiome, increasing cancer risk. In contrast, diets rich in plant-based foods and fiber tend to support a favorable gut microbiome, which produces short-chain fatty acids that maintain intestinal barrier integrity and suppress tumor formation.
Fiber intake has been linked to increased gut microbial diversity, production of short-chain fatty acids, and potentially decreased gut permeability. Polyphenol-rich foods have also been associated with decreased risks of various cancers, including colorectal cancer.
Despite growing evidence, challenges exist in translating diet-microbiome-cancer advice into actionable guidance. Long-standing barriers to healthy eating persist, and more research is needed to understand the complex relationship between diet, gut health, and cancer risk.
Source: https://www.technologynetworks.com/cancer-research/articles/the-impact-of-diet-on-gut-health-and-cancer-development-402779