A common type of bacteria found in fermented foods and drinks like yogurt and kombucha may play a role in treating acid reflux and preventing its progression to esophageal cancer, according to a study by researchers at the University of Central Florida.
Acid reflux, experienced by approximately one in five British adults with severe symptoms, occurs when stomach acid flows back into the throat. While typically causing heartburn and a sour taste, prolonged exposure can damage the cells lining the esophagus. This damage can lead to inflammation and changes in cell DNA, potentially resulting in Barrett's esophagus, a pre-cancerous condition that significantly increases the risk of esophageal cancer.
How Probiotics May Help
The study suggests that acid reflux can disrupt the natural bacterial balance in the throat due to excessive stomach bile and salts, which can kill beneficial bacteria. This disruption can allow harmful bacteria to colonize the area, contributing to cellular damage and an elevated cancer risk.
Introducing a probiotic known as Lactobacillus spp. appeared to counteract these effects. Researchers found that these beneficial bacteria can displace harmful ones, restore a healthy microbial environment, and possess anti-inflammatory properties. Lead researcher Professor Claudia Andl noted that Lactobacilli are known to suppress inflammation and repair DNA damage, stating, "We all talk about how important it is to eat yogurt or drink kombucha so that we maintain a healthy bacterial residence in all your organs. And it's the same in the oesophagus."
Study Findings and Implications
Early findings from the study indicated that individuals given the probiotic exhibited lower rates of Barrett's esophagus. Furthermore, when cancer did develop in this group, it appeared significantly later compared to those who did not receive the probiotic.
Esophageal cancer is a serious concern, with nearly 10,000 diagnoses and approximately 7,900 deaths annually in the UK. The disease most commonly affects individuals aged 75 and over and is more prevalent in men. Smoking is identified as a major risk factor, linked to about 35 percent of cases, with combined heavy alcohol consumption further increasing the risk.
Symptoms of esophageal cancer can include difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, persistent cough, hoarse voice, unexplained weight loss, and pain in the throat or chest. Less common signs may involve coughing up blood or passing black stools.
Professor Andl expressed optimism that these findings could lead to new preventative treatments for individuals at risk of developing cancer from acid reflux, stating, "We aim to improve outcomes for the large number of reflux patients at risk for cancer. Playing a role in that would be incredibly rewarding."