When we think about the impact of urbanization, we often consider its social and economic effects. However, a new study has shed light on how urbanization in South Africa is changing diets and, in turn, affecting the health of the gut and potentially increasing the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Diet and the Gut Microbiome
The gut microbiome is a complex community of microorganisms living in our digestive tracts. It’s essential for digesting food, protecting against pathogens, and even influencing our moods and behaviors. What we eat can significantly alter this microbial community. The study found that urban Xhosa individuals consume more energy, fat, and animal protein than their rural counterparts. This shift in diet is linked to a decrease in the diversity of the gut microbiome and a move towards bacteria types involved in bile acid metabolism, which is associated with an increased risk of CRC.
Urbanization and Health Risks
Despite the urban individuals maintaining a high intake of fibers, which are usually beneficial for gut health, the study discovered they had higher levels of deoxycholic acid in their feces. This particular bile acid is known to be associated with a higher risk of CRC. The presence of similar levels of short-chain fatty acids in both urban and rural individuals was surprising, given their different diets. These acids typically have protective effects against CRC, suggesting that other factors related to urban diets might be at play in increasing disease risk.
The Metabolome Connection
The metabolome, which is the complete set of small-molecule chemicals found in a biological sample, reflects the body’s metabolic processes. The study’s findings indicate that urbanization is linked to significant changes in the gut microbiome and metabolome. These changes could be crucial in understanding how diet influences the risk of CRC and other NCDs.
Looking to the Future
The study’s findings highlight the need for further research to determine if reintroducing traditional dietary components could help mitigate the rise of NCDs in Sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding the link between diet, the gut microbiome, and the metabolic profile is vital for developing nutritional interventions aimed at reducing the risk of CRC and other NCDs.
As urbanization continues to spread, it’s clear that its effects on health extend beyond the visible. By exploring the intricate connections between our diets and the micro-world within us, we can hope to find strategies to counteract the negative health impacts of a rapidly changing lifestyle.
