Keto Diet May Increase the Risk of Colorectal Cancer: Study
The keto diet, a low-carb diet that has gained immense popularity in recent years, may have a darker side effect than previously thought. According to a recent study published in Nature, low-carb diets, including the keto diet, may increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the colon and rectum. It is one of the most common types of cancer diagnosed in the United States, with over 140,000 new cases diagnosed each year. While the exact causes of colorectal cancer are still not fully understood, research has shown that a diet high in processed meat, sugar, and refined carbohydrates may increase the risk of developing the disease.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto, aimed to investigate the impact of different dietary patterns on the growth of E. coli, a type of bacteria that has been linked to colorectal cancer. The researchers compared the effects of normal, low-carb, and Western-style (high-carb) diets on the growth of E. coli in mice.
The results of the study were startling. The researchers found that mice fed a low-carb diet had a significant increase in the growth of E. coli compared to mice fed a normal diet. Furthermore, the growth of E. coli was even greater in mice fed a Western-style diet, which is high in processed meat, sugar, and refined carbohydrates.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Stephen Berberich, explained the findings in an interview with Republic World. “Our study suggests that low-carb diets, including the keto diet, may increase the risk of colorectal cancer by stimulating the growth of E. coli, a bacteria that is linked to the disease.”
But what exactly is the keto diet, and why might it increase the risk of colorectal cancer? The keto diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that is designed to put the body into a state of ketosis, in which the body burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. The diet typically involves eating foods that are high in fat, such as meat, eggs, and cheese, as well as low-carb vegetables like leafy greens and broccoli.
While the keto diet has been touted as a way to lose weight and improve blood sugar control, some critics have raised concerns about its potential health risks. In addition to the potential link to colorectal cancer, the keto diet has also been linked to an increased risk of kidney stones, osteoporosis, and heart disease.
So, what can you do to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer? While the study’s findings are concerning, it’s important to note that the risk of colorectal cancer is influenced by many factors, including age, family history, and lifestyle.
Here are some tips to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer:
- Eat a balanced diet: Focus on eating a variety of whole, unprocessed foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and limit your consumption of sugary drinks.
- Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help reduce your risk of colorectal cancer by improving bowel function and reducing inflammation.
- Don’t smoke: Smoking is a significant risk factor for colorectal cancer, so quitting smoking can help reduce your risk.
- Get regular screenings: If you’re over 50, talk to your doctor about getting regular screenings for colorectal cancer.
In conclusion, while the study’s findings are concerning, it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between low-carb diets and colorectal cancer. In the meantime, it’s important to focus on eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and getting regular screenings to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer.
