Scientists discovered unexpected benefits of fiber

Scientists from the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity discovered that dietary fiber enhances the body's anti-cancer activity against melanoma.

As reported by BAKU.WS, their work, published in the journal Immunity, shows that fiber improves the function of T-lymphocytes - key cells of adaptive immunity responsible for destroying viruses, bacteria, and tumor cells.

The conclusions were based on observations of melanoma patients undergoing immunotherapy. Patients following a diet high in fiber had bacteria in their intestines that produce short-chain fatty acids when breaking down fibers. These metabolites serve as an energy source for immune cells and enhance their ability to recognize and eliminate tumor cells. Comparison of microbiomes showed that patients who responded better to immunotherapy had higher levels of these beneficial metabolites.

The researchers note that the obtained data emphasize the importance of healthy nutrition and may serve as a basis for developing personalized approaches in cancer therapy. They reminded that fiber is found in large quantities in plant foods: legumes, grains, nuts, vegetables, and whole grain bread.