Additional Coverage:
- A doctor who studies how a healthy gut can prevent colon cancer does 3 simple things to lower his risk (businessinsider.com)
Colon Cancer on the Rise: A Seattle Researcher’s Take on Gut Health
Colon cancer rates are increasing in adults under 50, and the reason remains unclear. Dr.
Neelendu Dey, an associate professor at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, believes gut health may play a significant role. While not the sole factor, Dr.
Dey points to strong correlations between the types and amounts of microbes in our gut and the development of cancer.
Our colons are home to trillions of microbes, and research suggests a diverse gut microbiome is linked to better overall health and a lower risk of various diseases, including colon cancer, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and even depression. Diet and lifestyle significantly influence the composition of our gut microbiome. For instance, ultra-processed foods and a lack of physical activity are thought to have detrimental effects.
Dr. Dey’s research focuses on how microbes could be used to prevent and treat colon cancer.
He emphasizes that everyone’s gut microbiome is unique, and his lab is working towards personalized dietary recommendations based on individual microbial responses to different foods. The goal is to prevent the formation of precancerous polyps.
At 45, Dr. Dey adheres to recommended screening guidelines for colon cancer. However, he also prioritizes diet and lifestyle choices to support his gut health:
- Fiber at Every Meal: Dr.
Dey incorporates fiber into every meal, recognizing the strong link between fiber intake and improved gut health. Fiber, found in plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and oats, nourishes beneficial gut bacteria.
A 2018 study highlighted the connection between a diverse microbiome and consuming 30 different plant foods weekly. Dr.
Dey, of South Asian descent, frequently enjoys Indian cuisine, which is rich in lentils, chickpeas, and spices. Since “good” microbes feed on different types of fiber, a varied diet promotes a more diverse and healthy microbiome.
- Limiting Ultra-Processed Foods: Dr.
Dey acknowledges the difficulty of completely avoiding ultra-processed foods in today’s world, but makes a conscious effort to limit their consumption. He prefers whole foods whenever possible, opting for an apple over a processed apple-containing snack bar.
- Regular Exercise: An active member of soccer and kickball teams, Dr.
Dey recognizes the importance of exercise for both physical and gut health. Exercise promotes efficient digestion and reduces the colon’s exposure to toxins.
Studies also indicate that regular physical activity can increase beneficial gut microbes, enhancing diversity.
Dr. Dey believes nurturing the microbiome is a long-term commitment to better health, comparing it to the consistent practice required to master a musical instrument.