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Introduction: Lynch syndrome (LS) is a genetic condition that increases the risk of various cancers, particularly in the colon and rectum. Researchers have been exploring ways to reduce this risk, and one promising approach involves resistant starch (RS), a type of carbohydrate that resists digestion in the small intestine and ferments in the large intestine.
The Study: The CAPP2 trial was a large-scale study involving nearly 1,000 participants with Lynch syndrome. The participants were randomly assigned to take either 30 grams of resistant starch daily or a placebo for up to four years. The study aimed to investigate the long-term effects of resistant starch on cancer incidence.
Key Findings:
Non-Colorectal Cancer Reduction:
The study found that resistant starch significantly reduced the incidence of non-colorectal cancers in Lynch syndrome patients. Specifically, there were fewer cases of cancers in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, such as the esophagus, stomach, and pancreas, among those who took resistant starch compared to those who took the placebo12.
The protective effect was substantial, with a reduction of over 60% in these cancers2.
Colorectal Cancer:
Interestingly, the study did not find a significant difference in colorectal cancer incidence between the resistant starch and placebo groups1.
Long-Term Benefits:
The benefits of resistant starch were observed to last for up to 10 years after participants stopped taking the supplement2.
How Resistant Starch Works: Resistant starch acts like dietary fiber. It ferments in the large intestine, feeding beneficial gut bacteria. This fermentation process produces short-chain fatty acids, which have various health benefits, including potentially reducing cancer risk. Researchers believe that resistant starch may alter the metabolism of bile acids in the gut, reducing the production of harmful bile acids that can damage DNA and lead to cancer
2.
Conclusion: The CAPP2 trial suggests that resistant starch could be a valuable tool in reducing the risk of certain cancers in Lynch syndrome patients. While it doesn't seem to affect colorectal cancer risk, its significant impact on other types of cancer, particularly in the upper GI tract, is promising. Including resistant starch in the diet, through foods like oats, beans, and slightly green bananas, could be a simple and effective strategy for cancer prevention in high-risk individuals.
Takeaway: For those with Lynch syndrome, adding resistant starch to your diet might be a beneficial step in reducing the risk of certain cancers. Always consult with healthcare professionals before making any significant changes to your diet or health regimen.
1: Cancer Prevention with Resistant Starch in Lynch Syndrome Patients 2: ScienceDaily Summary on Resistant Starch and Cancer Prevention
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