What Is Intestinal Flora (Microbiota, Microbiome)? How Is It Related to Colorectal Cancer?

What Is Microbiota?

Each human consists of more than approximately 60 trillion cells. Around 30 trillion are human cells and 30 trillion microorganisms living in the body (bacterial cells are approximately 10 times smaller, and viruses much smaller still). Viruses, bacteria or fungi among these harmless microorganisms form the microbiome / microbiota / flora , most abundant in the intestine, then skin, mouth and vagina. Intestinal microbiota weighs 2 kilos and is now considered an organ because of both function and weight. We live with these beneficial organisms in a mutually advantageous relationship.

What Is the Relationship Between Microbiota and Colorectal Cancer?

The colon and rectum form the large intestine. The final 20 cm is the rectum; the portion extending back to the small intestine is the colon. Together they measure approximately 1,5 m. Partly digested food enters the colon, which removes water and minerals and stores the remainder for elimination through the anus.

Cancer beginning in the colon is called colon cancer, and cancer beginning in the rectum is rectal cancer. Together they are generally called colorectal cancer . They arise from cells lining these organs. National statistics rank colorectal cancer third in both women and men, making it an important health problem. Early disease generally causes no complaints or symptoms. The most effective early detection method is colonoscopy. Studies indicate intestinal microbiota analysis will play an important role in assessment. Colonic microbiota has been found to trigger colorectal cancer through epithelial cell changes and proliferation, bioactive product synthesis and effects on immunity.

Main associated factors include nutrition, genetic mutations and inflammatory bowel disease. Diet is now known as the most important trigger. Our country’s high colorectal cancer frequency indicates our dietary pattern is not particularly healthy.

Antibiotics and poor dietary habits directly affect intestinal microbiota, which is associated with many diseases including colorectal cancer.

How Should We Eat for Healthy Intestines and Better Microbiota?

1. Yogurt and fermented foods (tarhana, boza, grape must, vinegar and fermented dairy products), as probiotic foods , should be consumed.
2. Studies show exercise supports healthy microbiota. Avoid inactivity and make exercise a lifestyle.
3. Fiber-rich foods help beneficial intestinal bacteria multiply. Pay attention to fiber intake to cleanse and renew the intestines.
4. Our country is among the highest antibiotic users worldwide. Unnecessary use must be prevented. Antibiotics have long-term negative microbiota effects!
5. Avoid packaged, unnatural and processed foods, which disrupt microbiota over time.