Liver cancer can be fatal, but experts are still trying to figure out how to screen for and prevent it.
A recent study suggests that a diet high in processed fibre may increase the risk of liver cancer in some people.
Bile acid testing could help identify people who are at risk of developing liver cancer and should consume less fermentable fibre.
Despite new dieting ideas and trends, it can be difficult to stick to dietary recommendations at times. Because everyone’s dietary needs differ, diets must frequently be diverse and tailored to individual needs and health risks. A recent study published in Gastroenterology looked at fermentable fiber-rich diets in mice and their risk of developing liver cancer.
The researchers discovered that eating a diet high in fermentable fibre increased the risk of developing liver cancer in mice with a specific congenital defect. These mice’s blood also had a high bile acid content.
Based on this and additional data from people, the researchers propose that screening for bile acid levels may help predict the risk of developing liver cancer. People with higher bile acid levels should be cautious about the amount of fiber-enriched processed foods they consume.
