NEW YORK, Feb 15: Scientists have discovered that regular consumption of yogurt may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, particularly through a beneficial bacteria called "Bifidobacterium." However, for yogurt to have this protective effect, it needs to be consumed in the right amount.

Colorectal cancer, which occurs when abnormal cells grow in the colon or rectum and form tumors, can spread to other parts of the body if not treated. Though those over 50 are most at risk, the number of younger adults being diagnosed with colorectal cancer has been rising alarmingly.

A new study led by Massachusetts General Brigham suggests that yogurt may help protect against colorectal cancer by influencing the gut microbiome over time. The microbiome, made up of bacteria, viruses, and fungi in the digestive system, plays a key role in breaking down food and producing vitamins and nutrients essential for health.

Published in Gut Microbes, the study used decades of dietary data and found that consuming two or more servings of yogurt per week was linked to lower rates of a specific type of colorectal cancer, called "Bifidobacterium-positive proximal colon cancer," which occurs on the right side of the colon and is often more fatal.

Colorectal cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and the fourth in women, according to the American Cancer Society.

Dr. Shuji Ogino, the corresponding author and program chief in Molecular Pathological Epidemiology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, stated, “Our study provides unique evidence about the potential benefit of yogurt.” Yogurt contains live, active cultures that introduce good bacteria to the gut, and research has long shown that fermented dairy products are linked to improved health and lower disease rates, such as Type 2 diabetes.

Dr. Ogino explained that his research aims to connect long-term dietary habits with health outcomes, such as the presence or absence of specific bacterial species in tissues, helping to strengthen the evidence between diet and health.

Gut health is becoming increasingly recognized for its importance in overall well-being. Research even suggests that diseases like Parkinson's may begin in the gut. A March 2022 study from Clarkson University also found a potential link between gut health and personality.

Dr. Tomotaka Ugai, co-senior author of the study, said, “It has long been believed that yogurt and other fermented milk products are beneficial for gastrointestinal health.”

Both regular and Greek yogurts are rich in calcium and probiotics that support digestive health, though experts recommend looking for labels that mention “live and active cultures” for the best probiotics.

Dr. Andrew T. Chan, co-author of the study, added, “This paper adds to the growing evidence that illustrates the connection between diet, the gut microbiome, and the risk of colorectal cancer.” He emphasized that these findings offer new avenues for further research on colorectal cancer risk, especially in younger people.