Probiotics and cancer therapy: What role does gut health play?

Probiotics and cancer therapy: What role does gut health play?

The importance of the gut microbiome for general well-being is increasingly being scientifically investigated. In recent years, interest in the role of gut flora during cancer treatments has also grown.

This article provides an overview of current research findings on intestinal health during cancer therapies and objectively classifies the available evidence.

Why is the gut relevant during cancer therapy?

The human gut is home to trillions of microorganisms that influence, among other things:

• Immune regulation

• Inflammatory processes

• Metabolic processes

• Nutrient intake

can take.

Various medications used in chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy can affect the gut flora. Antibiotics, cortisone preparations, and proton pump inhibitors can also alter the microbiome.

A disrupted intestinal barrier is described in the literature with symptoms such as:

• Diarrhea

• fatigue

• Difficulty concentrating

• nausea

• Mucosal irritation

associated with

Lifestyle measures to support gut health

International cancer centers often recommend general measures to support bowel function during therapy. These include:

• Consumption of fermented foods (e.g., yogurt, kefir, kimchi)

• Increase fiber intake (e.g., legumes, vegetables, mushrooms)

• Reduction of highly processed foods

• Regular exercise

• Sufficient sleep

These measures can help stabilize the microbiome.

Role of probiotic supplements

Several randomized controlled trials have investigated whether certain probiotic bacterial strains can influence side effects of cancer therapies.

Systematic reviews show:

• Lactobacillus strains were the most frequently studied.

• Several studies have shown a reduction in the frequency of therapy-related diarrhea.

• None of the included studies reported serious side effects.

Some studies also investigated possible links with:

• cognitive performance

• Inflammatory markers

• Immune parameters

However, it's important to note that not all probiotics are the same, and not every situation is suitable for supplementation. The choice should be made individually and in consultation with your doctor.

Probiotics and various forms of therapy

chemotherapy

Several studies have investigated Lactobacillus strains in connection with chemotherapy-induced gastrointestinal side effects. Systematic reviews have shown a reduction in therapy-related diarrhea in many cases.

Hormone therapy

Long-term hormone therapies can cause metabolic changes and alterations in the gut microbiota. This study investigates whether probiotic interventions could have a supportive effect. However, the data are not yet conclusive.

Immunotherapy

Current research suggests that the gut microbiome may influence the response to certain immunotherapies. Clinical data are still being developed.

radiotherapy

Several controlled studies have investigated the use of probiotics to support bowel function during radiation therapy. Positive effects on certain gastrointestinal complaints have been reported.

Gut microbiome and prostate cancer

Laboratory studies suggest that changes in the microbiome may influence hormonal signaling pathways. Clinical trials have also investigated combinations of a phytochemical-rich diet and probiotic supplementation.

Changes in certain clinical markers were observed in a randomized, double-blind study. The results are still being discussed in the scientific community.

Security

The majority of published studies report good tolerability of certain Lactobacillus strains during oncological therapies.

However, the following still applies:

Not every probiotic formulation is suitable for every patient situation. Supplementation, especially in immunocompromised individuals, should only be undertaken under medical supervision.

Conclusion

Gut health is a relevant field of research in the context of cancer therapies. Lifestyle measures play a central role. Certain probiotic bacterial strains have been investigated in clinical trials and show potential supportive effects in some areas.

Further research is needed to better understand long-term impacts and optimal strategies.

Note: Dietary supplements are not a substitute for medical treatment. During cancer therapy, any additional measures should only be taken in consultation with the treating medical professional.