Activate a “Sniper Attack” Against Colon Cancer
Many types of cancer are decreasing in the U.S.
Colorectal cancer isn’t one of them.
In fact, this cancer is increasing in folks under 50 at an alarming rate. Compared to people in 1950, those born in 1990 or after have DOUBLE the risk of colon cancer and QUADRUPLE the risk of rectal cancer.
Like many cancers, poor lifestyle habits such as obesity and being sedentary are the biggest reasons for this increase.
Seniors aren’t off the hook, though, as most cases are still found in people over 50.
So boosting your body’s ability to fight colon cancer is VITAL no matter your age.
That’s why a recent study is creating such a buzz. Scientists have identified an extract that boosts the immune cells that specifically fight colon cancer.
In a preclinical model of colorectal cancer, researchers pinpointed a metabolite (a small molecule) of pomegranate called urolithin A as a new approach to battling colorectal cancer.
They found that pomegranate extract does something better than simply attacking the tumor itself. It stops tumor growth by boosting the immune system’s ability to battle cancer cells.
After treatment with urolithin A, the cytotoxic T-cells turned into T memory stem cells. These critical cells provide the immune system with a constant supply of rejuvenated T cells.
You see, one of the reasons why colorectal cancer is so frustratingly difficult to treat is because of its negative impact on T cells.
Colon tumors thrive by suppressing nearby immune cell function. It’s like they knock out your body’s “cancer snipers” from their watch tower.
And when T cells can’t fight off the tumor, it can grow and spread uncontrollably.
By BOOSTING T memory stem cells, pomegranate extract essentially creates a constant supply of sniper reinforcements to do battle against the tumor.
More specifically, the pomegranate extract replaced damaged mitochondria (the power plants of the T cells) with new, functional ones.
This process is called mitophagy. It represents a fundamentally different approach to fighting cancer.
Instead of focusing on killing the tumor cell itself, this pomegranate extract helps bolster your body’s own defense against cancer.
I’m always encouraged by treatments that help your body care for itself.
In the meantime, you can lower your odds of developing colon cancer by avoiding the top risk factors, including obesity, inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol.
P.S. Urolithin A isn’t the only powerful nutrient hiding out in delicious pomegranates. In fact, dark red and purple fruits and veggies are packed with another potent colon-cancer-battling compound. I’ve got the scoop right here.
SOURCE:
“Expansion of T memory stem cells with superior anti-tumor immunity by Urolithin A-induced mitophagy,” Immunity, Published: October 18, 2022, DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.immuni.2022.09.014
