For the last few years, yogurt commercials have been touting the value of probiotics for gastrointestinal health. A growing body of evidence shows that probiotics may also play a substantial role in protecting against the development of cancer.

Probiotics: Nature’s “Good” Bacteria

Fermented dairy products like yogurt produce lactic acid bacteria (LAB), which slows down the spoilage process. As “good” bacteria, LAB releases enzymes into the intestinal tract that improve digestion and increase absorption of nutritional substances.

LAB also has a number of properties that appear to suppress cancer. It reduces mutagenic cellular activities leading to genetic changes, as well as enzymes that promote carcinogens and other tumor-related substances. Other cancer-specific benefits include:

• Activation and modulation of the immune system’s response
• Facilitation of pathways for cytokines, which are proteins that help to govern cell-based immune responses
• Regulation of interleukins and other tumor necrosis factors

What Does the Future Hold?

Both in vitro and in vivo tests have shown promising results regarding the inhibitive effect of probiotics on colon, liver, and bladder cancers. Reports suggest that probiotics boost the activity of anti-oxidants which protect against cell damage, which can increase the risk of cancer.

Immunotherapy for Cancer: Aiding the Body’s Natural Defenses

Probiotics assist your body’s immune response, which is the same goal of immuno-oncology protocols such as cancer vaccines and gene-targeted therapies. Our non-toxic, personalized treatments have successfully helped patients with all forms of cancer, including breast, lung, and liver. Contact us today to learn more about how you could benefit from immunotherapy for cancer at Issels®.