Western Diet May Fuel Colon Cancer Through Gut Bacteria-Produced DCA

A Gut study links Western-style diets to colon cancer by showing certain gut bacteria produce deoxycholic acid (DCA) that promotes tumor growth; experiments in pigs and mice show increased tumors with DCA, while removing bile acids reduced cell proliferation; human data show more DCA-producing bacteria genes in people with colorectal cancer, but causality isn’t proven; findings support dietary fiber–rich diets to support a healthier gut microbiome and potentially reduce risk.