Skip to main content
search

The gut microbiome may play a significant role in how people respond to cancer treatment, and Comprehensive shares ways to get more in your body.

In the recent issue of Nature, it was noted that gut bacteria or microbiome could wield large influence over the effectiveness of certain cancer drugs. Researchers have now found that the ratio of specific microbial communities in the gut can help to predict who will respond to next-generation drugs for treating some types of cancer.

The human microbiome, consisting of trillions of microorganisms living in the gut, plays a critical role in our overall health. These microbes aid in digestion, produce essential vitamins, and help regulate the immune system. An imbalance in the gut microbiome can lead to various health issues, including digestive disorders, obesity, diabetes, and even mental health problems. Ensuring a healthy microbiome through dietary changes is essential, and Comprehensive Cancer Centers can show you ways to get that done.

Getting to Know Gut Microbiomes
The gut microbiome comprises bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microorganisms. These microbes are influenced by genetics, environment, lifestyle, and most importantly, diet. A diverse and balanced diet can promote a diverse and balanced microbiome, which is associated with better health outcomes. Conversely, a diet high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats can harm the gut microbiome.

Dietary Changes to Promote a Healthy Microbiome
Fiber is a crucial nutrient for gut health because it acts as food for beneficial gut bacteria. There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Both types are important for maintaining a healthy microbiome. Found in foods like oats, beans, fruits, and vegetables, soluble fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance in the gut, which is fermented by bacteria into beneficial compounds. Found in whole grains, nuts, and vegetables, insoluble fiber adds bulk to the stool and helps maintain regular bowel movements. Increasing the intake of high-fiber foods can promote the growth of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli, which are associated with numerous health benefits.

Prebiotics are a type of fiber that selectively feed beneficial gut bacteria. Including prebiotic-rich foods in the diet can enhance the growth and activity of these microbes. Examples of prebiotic foods includes garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, bananas, oats, and apples are excellent sources of prebiotics. By regularly consuming these foods, a healthy balance of gut bacteria can be achieved.

Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that can help maintain or restore a healthy gut microbiome and can be found in various fermented foods and supplements including yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, tempeh, and certain cheeses are rich in probiotics. Adding these foods into a diet introduces beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria into your gut, which enhanced microbial diversity and health.

A diverse diet rich in different types of plant-based foods can promote a diverse gut microbiome. Each plant food contains different types of fiber and polyphenols, which are beneficial compounds that act as fuel for different types of gut bacteria. These foods include fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

When it comes to fruits and vegetables, a great source is berries, which are rich in polyphenols and have been shown to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Vegetables like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are high in fiber and nutrients that feed beneficial bacteria.

Whole grains are an excellent source of fiber and other nutrients that support gut health with oats and barley particularly high in beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that has prebiotic effects. Brown rice and quinoa provide insoluble fiber, which helps maintain regular bowel movements and overall gut health.

Processed foods and added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and unhealthy fats can negatively impact the gut microbiome by promoting the growth of harmful bacteria and reducing microbial diversity. Comprehensive always recommends people look for whole, unprocessed foods can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria.

Legumes and beans, including chickpeas, lentils and black beans are rich in fiber and resistant starch, which act as prebiotics and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria. Almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds are also excellent sources of fiber and nutrients that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria.

While they may seem adventurous to some, fermented foods are naturally rich in critical probiotics which maintain or restore a healthy gut microbiome. Dairy products, like yogurt and kefir are rich in live cultures of beneficial bacteria. Fermented vegetables, such as sauerkraut and kimchi that provide a variety of beneficial bacteria. Fermented soy products, like miso and tempeh, also contain probiotics and other beneficial compounds.

For tips on how to eat smarter, check out Comprehensive’s recipes blog posts.

Impact of Lifestyle Factor on the Microbiome
While antibiotics are necessary for treating bacterial infections, overuse of antibiotics can harm the gut microbiome. It’s important to use antibiotics when prescribed by a healthcare professional and to follow instructions carefully.

Chronic stress can also negatively impact gut health by altering the gut microbiome and increasing gut permeability. Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and regular exercise can help maintain a healthy gut. Quality sleep is crucial for overall health, including gut health. Poor sleep can disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome, so make sure you get 7-9 hours of sleep each night for a healthy gut.

Regular physical activity is associated with a more diverse gut microbiome. A good goal is to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Comprehensive shares insights into how to get more active, safely, as well as how to have discussions with your doctors before starting workout plans, right here (LINK 4).

Creating an environment and lifestyle that supports healthy microbes, leading to improved digestion, enhanced immune function, and better overall health, making the dietary changes, and other lifestyle modifications worth the effort. This is true not only for those with cancer and undergoing treatment, but for everyone looking to live a healthier life.

Comprehensive Cancer Centers Can Help
Physicians at Comprehensive provide a variety of treatment options for patients with cancer. To schedule an appointment with the team at Comprehensive, please call 702-952-3350.

The content is this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

Close Menu