(Ivanhoe Newswire) — Although the cause of Crohn’s disease remains unknown, some researchers say the invention of refrigerators may have contributed to the outbreak of the disease. Researchers from France discuss their theory, which they call the “cold-chain hypothesis,” in this week’s issue of The Lancet.
Crohn’s disease is a chronic illness that causes irritation in the digestive tract. It occurs most commonly in the lower small intestine or in the colon. The condition is thought to be brought on by environmental factors, such as diet and smoking, in people who are genetically susceptible.
Researchers say psychrotrophic bacteria, bacteria that can survive or develop in low temperatures, often found in beef, pork, chicken, sausages, hamburgers, cheese and lettuce may contribute to Crohn’s disease. These bacteria grow slowly at temperatures between 30 degrees Fahrenheit and 50 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the temperature inside refrigerators. Jean-Pierre Hugot, lead author of the study, says, “All findings point to refrigeration as a potential risk factor for Crohn’s disease.”
Hugot also says the invention of refrigerators paralleled the outbreak of Crohn’s disease during the 20th century. He says population-based data show Crohn’s disease increased in prevalence in the United States during the 1940s — the same year about 50 percent of Americans had a refrigerator in their homes. A similar trend occurred in Sweden, the United Kingdom, and southern Europe. Authors of the study say these examples point to temporal and geographical coincidences between the development of the refrigerator and the outbreak of Crohn’s disease.
Authors conclude, “We propose a link between Crohn’s disease, the cold-chain, and chronic infestation of the digestive tract by psychrotrophic bacteria.” However, they say the benefits of a refrigerator outweigh the potential risks.
From 14wfie.com
