Navy Beans Offer Potential Health Boost for Colon Cancer Patients

Quincy Jon, Tech Times 04 December 2023, 02:12 pm

A recent clinical trial has revealed that incorporating navy beans into the diet of colon cancer survivors could significantly enhance their health.

Researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center's trial showed that participants who added a cup of navy beans to their regular meals experienced positive changes in their gut microbiome.

Navy beans, small and white, are rich in gut-supporting fibers, amino acids, and various nutrients that promote the flourishing of beneficial gut bacteria. The alterations observed in the participants' gut microbiome have been linked to potential cancer prevention and improved treatment outcomes, according to Health Day.

Lead researcher Carrie Daniel-MacDougall, an associate professor of diversity through diet alone. Over eight weeks, participants' gut health improved due to a rise in good bacteria, which fight dangerous bacteria.

The research included 48 obese men and women over 30 with cancer-related gastrointestinal problems. Three-quarters had colon cancer, while the rest had high-risk precancerous polyps. The researchers randomly assigned individuals to eat a cup of cooked white navy beans every day or maintain their diet.

Regular stool and fasting blood samples allowed researchers to monitor shifts in the gut microbiome and overall health. Positive changes were observed, including an increase in beneficial bacteria and a decrease in potentially harmful bacteria.

Despite the encouraging findings, Daniel-MacDougall cautioned against adding navy beans to one's diet without consulting a doctor. She emphasized the need for further study on how a wider variety of foods may assist cancer patients, especially immunotherapy patients.

Poor Diet, Unhealthy Lifestyle Increase Colon Cancer Risk

In similar news, Indian city doctors have seen a surge in colorectal cancer diagnoses among 20- and 30-somethings. Colorectal cancer currently affects 10%-15% of tumor patients, up from prior months. Poor eating choices are linked to the increase, although early diagnosis and treatment have reduced the fatality rate.

The experts' observation found that a bad diet is associated with colorectal cancer cases while consuming fiber and nutrients like calcium decreases the risk. Dr. Snita Sinukumar, a consultant oncologist at Jehangir Hospital, emphasized that colon cancer often arises due to DNA mutations in colon or rectal cells, leading to uncontrolled growth, per Hindustan Times.

The expert noted that diet, tobacco, smoking, and excessive drinking raise the risk of acquiring colon cancer. Some inherited disorders or family histories increase the chance of developing the illness.

WHO: Colon Cancer Cases Expected to Increase Worldwide

According to the World Health Organization, colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths globally. With considerable regional differences, colorectal cancer incidence and mortality were anticipated at about 1.9 million new cases and 930,000 deaths in 2020. Effective screening programs in high-income nations have reduced incidence.

As colon cancer prognoses vary by stage, detection at an early stage, treatment, and follow-up increase survival and quality of life. Colorectal cancer is anticipated to grow by 2040, requiring global health solutions.