Yogurt Benefits

FightBack Foods Team
Apr 13
3 min read

Benefits of Yogurt for People Fighting Cancer

Yogurt, particularly those containing live probiotic cultures, offers several potential benefits for people fighting cancer. Research suggests that regular yogurt consumption is associated with a reduced risk of certain cancers, especially colorectal cancer, and may also support overall health during cancer treatment.

Cancer Risk Reduction

Multiple large-scale studies and meta-analyses have found that higher yogurt intake is linked to a lower risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). For example, a comprehensive analysis of over one million participants found that yogurt consumption was associated with a 12% reduction in colorectal cancer risk, with even greater reductions for esophageal (36%) and bladder (21%) cancers1 3 4.
Recent research shows that people who eat yogurt at least twice a week have a 20% lower rate of developing Bifidobacterium-positive proximal colon cancer, a particularly aggressive subtype of colorectal cancer2 5 7. This protective effect is believed to be related to beneficial changes in the gut microbiome, particularly an increase in Bifidobacterium and other probiotic bacteria, which can produce anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating compounds2 5 7.

Mechanisms of Action

Yogurt’s probiotics help enrich the gut with beneficial bacteria, which can:
- Reduce the activity of enzymes that convert procarcinogens to carcinogens in the colon.
- Strengthen the intestinal barrier and reduce inflammation.
- Stimulate immune function and produce short-chain fatty acids with anti-tumor properties1 2 7.
Yogurt is also a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), all of which have been linked to anti-cancer effects and improved bone health, which is particularly important for cancer patients8 9.

Supporting Cancer Treatment

During cancer treatment, maintaining weight and muscle mass can be challenging. Greek yogurt, with its higher protein content, is especially beneficial for supporting muscle maintenance and healing8 9.
Yogurt can be easily incorporated into nutrient-dense smoothies or parfaits, which are recommended by cancer centers to help meet increased protein and calorie needs, especially for patients experiencing fatigue or reduced appetite4 8.

Best Types of Yogurt for Cancer Patients

Plain, Unsweetened Yogurt: Choose varieties without added sugars, artificial flavors, or preservatives to avoid unnecessary additives that may counteract yogurt’s health benefits3 9.
Greek Yogurt: Offers higher protein and lower sugar content, making it ideal for supporting muscle maintenance during treatment. It also contains higher levels of CLA and vitamin B128 9.
Organic Yogurt: May have a more favorable nutrient profile and fewer harmful additives4.
Live/Active Cultures: Always select yogurts labeled as containing “live and active cultures” to maximize probiotic benefits2 5 7.
Low-Fat Options: Low-fat yogurt is often recommended, as it retains beneficial nutrients while reducing saturated fat intake9.

Additions to Enhance Benefits

Add berries, nuts, seeds, or whole grains to yogurt for extra antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats, further supporting cancer prevention and overall health4.

While yogurt alone is not a cure or guaranteed preventive measure, incorporating plain, probiotic-rich yogurt-especially Greek or organic varieties-into a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can provide meaningful support for people fighting cancer. It may help reduce the risk of certain cancers, support gut and immune health, and aid in maintaining strength and nutrition during treatment1 2 3 4 5 7 8 9.

Check sources

Yogurt Benefits

Benefits of Yogurt for People Fighting Cancer

Best Types of Yogurt for Cancer Patients

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