Chemotherapy is a common treatment for cancer that involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells.

While chemotherapy can be an effective treatment, it can also have some unpleasant side effects, including gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These side effects are often attributed to the fact that chemotherapy drugs can damage the lining of the gut, but there may be a more complex connection between chemotherapy and the gut than previously thought.

What is the gut microbiome?

The gut microbiome is the collection of microorganisms that live in the gastrointestinal tract. These microorganisms include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes, and they play an important role in digestion, immune function, and overall health.

Research has shown that the gut microbiome can have an impact on a range of health conditions, from obesity to depression.

How does chemotherapy affect the gut microbiome?

Chemotherapy drugs can have an impact on the gut microbiome in several ways. Firstly, chemotherapy drugs can kill off both cancerous and non-cancerous cells in the body, including the cells that make up the gut lining.

This can cause inflammation in the gut, which can disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome.

In addition, chemotherapy drugs can also directly affect the gut microbiome by killing off or altering the balance of gut bacteria.

This can lead to a reduction in the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can make it easier for harmful bacteria to grow and cause gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea and inflammation.

What are the long-term effects of chemotherapy on the gut?

The long-term effects of chemotherapy on the gut microbiome are not yet fully understood.

However, research has shown that chemotherapy can have a lasting impact on the gut microbiome, potentially altering the balance of bacteria in the gut even years after treatment has ended.

One study published in the journal Nature Communications found that chemotherapy can alter the composition of the gut microbiome in mice, reducing the number of beneficial bacteria and increasing the abundance of harmful bacteria.

The study also found that these changes to the gut microbiome could have an impact on the effectiveness of cancer treatments, as tumors were less responsive to certain chemotherapies in mice with a disrupted gut microbiome.

How can we support the gut microbiome during chemotherapy?

While chemotherapy can have an impact on the gut microbiome, there are steps that can be taken to support gut health during treatment. Some ways to support the gut microbiome during chemotherapy include:.

1. Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms that can help support the gut microbiome. These can be consumed through foods like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi, or through supplements.

However, it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking probiotics during chemotherapy, as some strains of bacteria may interact with chemotherapy drugs or increase the risk of infection.

2. Prebiotics

Prebiotics are types of fiber that feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut. Foods like bananas, onions, garlic, and asparagus are good sources of prebiotics.

Consuming prebiotic-rich foods can help support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria during chemotherapy.

3. High-fiber foods

High-fiber foods can help keep the digestive system functioning properly and support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are good sources of fiber.

4. Avoiding certain foods

During chemotherapy, it may be necessary to avoid certain foods that can irritate the gut or increase the risk of infection. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian for guidance on which foods to avoid during chemotherapy.

5. Staying hydrated

During chemotherapy, it’s important to stay hydrated to support gut health. Drinking plenty of water can help keep the digestive system functioning properly and prevent dehydration.

The bottom line

Chemotherapy can have an impact on the gut microbiome, potentially altering the balance of gut bacteria and leading to gastrointestinal issues.

However, there are steps that can be taken to support gut health during chemotherapy, including consuming probiotics and prebiotic-rich foods, avoiding certain foods, and staying hydrated. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian for guidance on how to support gut health during chemotherapy treatment.