The microbiome and cancer are closely related, as the microbes that live in our gut and other body sites can influence our immune system, metabolism, inflammation, and response to treatment. Some microbes can also cause or prevent cancer by producing toxins and metabolites or modifying our DNA. Therefore, it is important to maintain a healthy and balanced microbiome for cancer prevention and therapy.
One way to do that is by consuming probiotics and prebiotics, which are foods or supplements that contain beneficial bacteria or their food sources. Probiotics and prebiotics can help restore the diversity and function of the microbiome, especially after disruption by antibiotics, chemotherapy, or radiation. Some examples of probiotic foods are yogurt, kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, and miso. Some examples of prebiotic foods are whole grains, bananas, greens, onions, garlic, soybeans, and artichokes.
Several studies have shown that probiotics and prebiotics can have anti-cancer effects by modulating the immune system, inducing apoptosis of tumor cells, preventing pro-carcinogens from being converted to carcinogens, lowering the gut pH, and producing anti-inflammatory molecules. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal types, doses, and timing of probiotics and prebiotics for different cancer types and stages.