How Gut Health Influences Immune System’s Ability To Recognise And Fight Cancer Cells? Expert Explains

Maintaining gut health is crucial in the fight against cancer, as the immune system, which plays a key role in identifying and eliminating cancer cells, heavily depends on the gut for its proper function. The gut is home to trillions of bacteria that not only aid in digestion but also influence immune responses and inflammation throughout the body. Beneficial bacteria that thrive in a healthy gut microbiome produce short-chain fatty acids, which possess anti-inflammatory properties and help regulate the immune system. This regulation enhances the immune system's ability to target abnormal cells, including cancerous ones, more effectively.

Moreover, a balanced gut microbiome can help reduce chronic inflammation—a known risk factor for cancer—by preserving the integrity of the gut lining and preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream and causing systemic inflammation. Diet plays a significant role in gut health; consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fiber, and probiotics can promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, while reducing intake of processed foods, sugar, and red meat can prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria that can weaken the immune system and trigger inflammation.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Neeraj Goel, Director of Oncology Services, GI Oncology, GI & HPB Surgery at CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, discussed how gut health influences the immune system’s ability to recognize and fight cancer cells.

According to Dr. Neeraj, gut health plays an essential role in the immune system’s ability to combat cancer. The gut microbiome—a vast ecosystem of trillions of microorganisms residing in the digestive tract—acts as a key regulator of immune function. The symbiotic relationship between the gut microbiome and the immune system is vital in maintaining overall health and the body’s ability to detect and fight diseases like cancer.

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The immune system and the gut microbiome share a dynamic connection. A healthy gut microbiome helps modulate the immune system, preventing harmful overreactions such as chronic inflammation, which is linked to diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Conversely, a well-functioning immune system maintains the balance of the gut microbiome by protecting the gut lining from harmful pathogens and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.

Chronic inflammation, often driven by imbalances in the gut microbiome, can create an environment conducive to cancer development. Persistent inflammation can damage tissues and DNA, leading to mutations that increase the risk of cancer. For instance, conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are associated with a higher risk of colon cancer due to prolonged inflammation in the gut. Maintaining a balanced gut microbiome can help reduce this inflammation, supporting both gut and immune health and lowering cancer risk, Dr. Neeraj explained.

Probiotics and prebiotics are key components in promoting a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn supports immune function. Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and certain cheeses, such as aged cheddar and gouda. These foods help replenish the gut’s friendly bacteria, enhancing its protective role in immune regulation.

Prebiotics, on the other hand, are non-digestible fibers that feed and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Foods rich in prebiotics include asparagus, onions, leeks, garlic, legumes like chickpeas and lentils, and whole grains. By consuming a diet rich in prebiotics and probiotics, you can nurture a healthy gut microbiome, which strengthens the immune system's ability to recognize and fight cancer cells.

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Finally, Dr. Neeraj noted that ongoing research reveals that a diverse gut microbiome can enhance the effectiveness of certain cancer treatments, such as immunotherapy. By supporting the immune system's ability to identify and destroy cancer cells, a healthy gut microbiome becomes a crucial component in the fight against cancer. Nurturing gut health through the consumption of probiotic and prebiotic-rich foods can enhance immune function, reduce inflammation, and ultimately aid in the body's defense against cancer.