Bowel cancer, also called colorectal cancer, is increasing quickly—especially in young adults. Experts are now recommending a simple and tasty way to help lower the risk: eating yogurt regularly.
A recent study shows that cases of bowel cancer in people under 55 have more than doubled in recent years. In England, the number of bowel cancer cases in people aged 25 to 49 is going up by about 3.6% every year, according to Cancer Research UK.
Bowel Cancer is a Global Concern
Worldwide, bowel cancer is now the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths. Experts say that lifestyle choices, especially diet, are big reasons behind this rise.
Michelle Mitchell, the Chief Executive of Cancer Research UK, said that early-onset bowel cancer is increasing all over the world, but the rise is especially sharp in England.
Processed Foods Could Be a Major Cause
One possible reason for this rise is the high intake of ultra-processed foods. These are foods that are high in sugar, fat, and artificial additives. They can disturb the healthy bacteria in our gut, known as the gut microbiome, which plays an important role in keeping our immune system strong and preventing diseases like bowel cancer.
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How Yogurt Can Help Prevent Bowel Cancer
Professor Justin Stebbing, from Anglia Ruskin University, explained that yogurt, especially those rich in probiotics, may help protect against bowel cancer. Probiotics are “good” bacteria, like Bifidobacterium, that help keep our gut healthy.
“A healthy balance of gut bacteria is important to prevent inflammation, which can lead to cancer,” said Professor Stebbing.
Yogurt Lowers the Risk of a Dangerous Type of Bowel Cancer
In a large study with 150,000 people, researchers found that those who ate two or more servings of yogurt per week had a lower risk of getting a specific and more dangerous form of bowel cancer called proximal colon cancer. This type grows on the right side of the colon and is harder to detect early.
The study also found that people who ate more yogurt had less Bifidobacterium-positive bowel cancer, suggesting that probiotic-rich foods may truly help in bowel cancer prevention.
Simple Daily Habits Can Protect Your Health
This research shows that small diet changes—like adding yogurt to your breakfast—can make a big difference in your health over time. While yogurt alone is not a cure, it can be a helpful part of a healthy and balanced diet that may reduce the risk of bowel cancer, especially for young people.
Experts say that with bowel cancer on the rise, especially in younger adults, it’s important to make smart lifestyle choices. One of the easiest steps? Start your day with a serving of yogurt—your gut and your long-term health will thank you!
