Researchers have known for years that flavonoids help prevent colorectal cancer, but they couldn’t tell you exactly why. Now after a recent study, they finally have conclusive evidence to share.
What Are Flavonoids and Where Do You Get Them?
Flavonoids are naturally found in many fruits and vegetables. We have been told for years to eat our fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy diet, and now we have another tangible reason to do so.
Scientists discovered this phenomena during an earlier study of aspirin and how aspirin can reduce the risks of colorectal cancer. In this particular scientific study, they discovered a compound derivative in aspirin that slowed down the growth of cancer cells. Its long name is 2,4,6-trihydroxybenzoic acid or 2,4,6- THBA.
From this discovery they began to look for other natural sources of 2,4,6- THBA and found that it is also a derivative that occurs with the digestion of flavonoids. Thus, eating fruits and vegetables can help provide the same lower risk of colorectal cancers.
How It Works
As we consume our apples and broccoli, the flavonoids begin to break down as soon as they enter the intestines. Then our gut bacteria breaks them down even further into metabolites as they enter the colon. The anti-cancer effects of flavonoids are due to the metabolites and the all-important 2,4,6- THBA molecule within them.
The last stage of digestion takes place in the colon before passing waste through the rectum. The crucial part of this discovery is that in order for 2,4,6- THBA to enter the colon, it needs a transporter protein. This transporter protein in combination with 2,4,6-THBA does two important things:
- Slows the rate of cell division thereby giving immune cells time to find and kill cancer cells
- Gives cells the time to repair any damage to DNA
What Are the Next Steps?
It is expected that scientists will develop additional probiotics with metabolites from flavonoids to help prevent colorectal cancer. Since colorectal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths, developing something to actually prevent it could save thousands of lives. In the interim, eat more fruits and vegetables every day and encourage your loved ones to do the same!
Schedule a Consultation in Kansas City, MO
Contact Colorectal Surgical Associates and call (816) 941-0800 to schedule your colonoscopy at our colorectal clinics around Kansas City, MO or if you have any questions or concerns related to your personal risk for colorectal cancer.
Sources:
https://www.labroots.com/trending/cancer/16265/flavonoids-fight-colorectal-cancer