A recent study published in Nature Metabolism has unveiled a direct connection between dietary fiber intake and gene regulation associated with cancer prevention. Researchers from Stanford University discovered that when gut bacteria metabolize fiber, they produce short-chain fatty acids like propionate and butyrate. These metabolites enter the bloodstream and interact with histone proteins, leading to modifications in gene expression that promote controlled cell growth and apoptosis, thereby reducing the risk of cancerous developments.
This groundbreaking research provides molecular evidence supporting the protective role of a high-fiber diet against cancer. Despite the average American consuming only about 15 grams of fiber daily—significantly less than the recommended 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men—increasing fiber intake through foods like beans, nuts, and cruciferous vegetables could enhance the production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids. This dietary adjustment may offer a practical strategy for cancer prevention by influencing gene expression in a favorable manner. Click for More Details
