Post: Eating enough fiber prevents cancer in a surprising way

The inclusion of fiber in the diet has been linked to a variety of health perks for decades. The body needs this essential nutrient to keep digestion running smoothly and maintain steady blood sugar levels.

Most experts recommend at least 25 grams per day for women and 38 grams for men, yet many adults in the United States barely reach half that goal. But there is more to this story than a happy belly or balanced glucose.

A recent study in Nature Metabolism shows that fiber may also leave a mark on our genes. Why fiber still matters

Fiber comes in many forms, from the crunchy stems of leafy greens to the chewy shells of beans and nuts. Dietary fiber travels to the large intestine, where friendly bacteria feast on it.

This feast produces short-chain fatty acids, including propionate and butyrate, which have gained attention recently for their effects on gut health.

Researchers have been eager to see whether these acids from fibers impact genes beyond basic energy production. Fiber, gut, and fatty acids

The science behind short-chain fatty acids and genes has intrigued experts for years, and now Michael Snyder , Stanford B. Ascherman Professor of Genetics at Stanford University , has shed more light on it through this project.

His team traced the biological footprints of propionate and butyrate in both normal cells and cancer cells.

The aim was to see how these acids might switch genes on or off in ways that influence the growth and survival of cells. How fiber impacts genes Short-chain fatty acids are generated when gut microbes break down fiber. They move into the bloodstream and can reach different tissues.The study found that propionate and butyrate attach to certain sites on histones – which are proteins that act like spools for DNA – causing direct modifications on genes related to cell division and cell death.“We found a direct link between eating fiber and modulation of gene function that has anti-cancer effects,” said Snyder.Instead of simply describing fiber’s link to good health, the researchers pinpointed the exact molecular changes behind those benefits. Preventing uncontrolled cell growth Cancer often […]

Eating enough fiber prevents cancer in a surprising way