Study Links Western Diets to Higher Risk of IBD and Colorectal Cancer
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A recent review published in Nature Reviews Microbiology has revealed that Western diets significantly increase the risk of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and colorectal cancer. Conducted by APC Microbiome Ireland (APC) in collaboration with Teagasc and University College Cork (UCC), the study explores the impact of various dietary patterns on gut health and associated diseases.
The comprehensive review analysed six prevalent diets: Mediterranean, high-fiber, plant-based, high-protein, ketogenic, and Western. The focus was on how these diets influence the gut microbiome—the community of microorganisms living in the intestines—and how changes in the microbiome affect overall health.
Key findings indicate that the Western diet, characterized by high levels of fat and sugar, has particularly detrimental effects on gut microbiome composition and functionality. This diet disrupts the balance of beneficial microorganisms and is linked to a higher risk of developing IBD and colorectal cancer. In contrast, diets rich in plant-based and high-fiber foods were found to have a more positive impact on the gut microbiome.
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