From the Guidelines
There is limited but promising evidence that specific probiotic strains, particularly Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species, may help reduce colorectal cancer risk by modulating gut microbiota, reducing inflammation, and enhancing immune function, as suggested by recent studies 1.
Key Findings
- The most recent study from 2024 1 highlights the benefits of probiotics in maintaining gut health, which can indirectly influence the risk of various diseases, including colorectal cancer.
- Another study from 2023 1 discusses the potential of manipulating the gut microbiome to influence colorectal cancer risk, although it notes that the evidence is still preliminary.
- An older but relevant study from 2017 1 reviews existing meta-analyses on the use of probiotics in clinical practice, including their potential benefits in reducing the risk of certain diseases.
Probiotic Strains and Colorectal Cancer
- Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species are among the probiotic strains that have shown potential in reducing colorectal cancer risk 1.
- Specific strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Bifidobacterium lactis, as well as combinations like VSL#3, may offer benefits, although more research is needed to confirm their efficacy 1.
Recommendations
- For individuals interested in using probiotics for colorectal health, choosing products with well-studied strains at doses of at least 1-10 billion CFU daily is advisable, although optimal dosing remains unclear 1.
- It is essential to note that probiotics should be considered complementary to established colorectal cancer prevention strategies, such as regular screening, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting red meat consumption, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol 1.
From the Research
Probiotic Strains and Colorectal Cancer
There is evidence to suggest that certain probiotic strains may have a positive effect on colorectal cancer.
- The use of probiotics such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus has been shown to improve quality of life, enhance gut microbiota diversity, and reduce postoperative infection complications in patients with colorectal cancer 2.
- Probiotics have also been found to have antitumor activity, with mechanisms including the alteration of intestinal microflora, inactivation of cancerogenic compounds, and improvement of the host's immune response 3.
- A newly developed probiotic formula containing three bifidobacteria (B. adolescentis, B. longum, and B. bifidum) has been shown to inhibit the growth of CRC-associated bacteria, including Fusobacterium nucleatum 4.
- A combination of Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactococcus lactis strains has been found to have synergistic effects in alleviating colitis-associated colorectal cancer, with mechanisms including the induction of apoptosis in colon cancer cells and the regulation of intestinal homeostasis 5.
Key Findings
- Probiotics may have a role in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer, with certain strains showing promise in improving outcomes and reducing the risk of death 2, 3.
- The use of probiotics in combination with conventional therapy may enhance the efficacy of treatment and improve patient outcomes 2, 5.
- Further research is needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer, including the identification of specific strains and dosages 6, 2, 3, 4, 5.
Probiotic Strains
- Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus are common probiotic strains used in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Other strains, such as Lactococcus lactis, may also have potential in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer 5.
- The use of multi-strain probiotic preparations may have a greater preventive impact than single-strain preparations 5.