Walnuts: The insider tip against colon cancer and inflammation!

A recent study from the University of Connecticut suggests that daily consumption of walnuts could reduce the risk of colon cancer. The results were published in the specialist magazineCancer Prevention Researchpublished and show that walnuts, which are rich in vitamins, proteins and healthy fatty acids, can have a positive influence on intestinal health.

Diet plays a crucial role in the development and progression of cancer, especially colon cancer. Processed meat and alcohol are known to increase the risk, while walnuts contain ellagitannins, which are converted into urolithins by gut bacteria. Urolithin A in particular is valued for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the risk of cancer.

Study results and methodology

Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. In 2021, 141,902 new cases were diagnosed in the United States, of which 52,967 were fatal. In Germany, around one in nine cancers affects the colon or rectum. The study included 39 people aged 40 to 65 who were at increased risk of colon cancer. To begin, participants had to avoid ellagitannin-rich foods for a week before consuming walnuts daily for three weeks.

During the study, inflammatory markers were monitored through blood, urine and stool samples. High-resolution colonoscopy was used to examine intestinal polyps. It was found that participants who produced more urolithin A also had lower levels of inflammation, particularly among overweight individuals. In addition, a connection has been found between walnut consumption and a reduction in the protein vimentin, which is linked to advanced forms of colon cancer.

In addition, other sources also report that regular consumption of walnuts can counteract inflammation in the body and inhibit the growth of cancer cells. According to another analysis, the polyphenolic ellagitannins contained in walnuts are crucial for conversion into the anti-inflammatory molecule urolithin A. In a study conducted on participants at increased risk of cancer, it was found that higher urolithin A levels correlate with significantly lower inflammatory markers in the blood and stool.

These findings support the idea that eating a handful of walnuts every day could contribute to better long-term health. Research clearly shows that walnuts are not only nutrient-dense but also protective for gut health.