Men with prostate cancer may have a powerful tool to combat the disease’s progression: a plant-based diet. Recent research by UC San Francisco reveals that men who eat more fruits, vegetables, nuts, and olive oil can significantly lower their risk of prostate cancer worsening.

The study, published in JAMA Network Open, followed more than 2,000 men with localized prostate cancer. Researchers found that those who adhered to a primarily plant-based diet had a 47% lower risk of their cancer progressing compared to those who consumed the most animal products. The median age of the participants was 65 years.

Key Findings

1. Diet and Cancer Progression: The study highlighted that even small dietary changes, such as adding one or two servings of healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains each day while reducing animal products, could have significant benefits.

2. Plant-Based Diet Index: The researchers used a plant-based index to measure diet quality, comparing those who scored in the highest 20% with those in the lowest 20%. The results were clear: a higher plant-based diet score was associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer progression.

3. Health Benefits Beyond Cancer: The study also noted other health benefits of a plant-based diet, including a reduction in diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and overall mortality.

Expert Insights: Vivian N. Liu, the lead clinical research coordinator at the UCSF Osher Center for Integrative Health and first author of the study, emphasized the broader implications of these findings. “These results could guide people to make better, more healthful choices across their whole diet, rather than adding or removing select foods,” Liu said.

Stacey A. Kenfield, ScD, the senior author and UCSF professor of urology, highlighted the importance of diet in managing prostate cancer. “Greater consumption of plant-based food after a prostate cancer diagnosis has also recently been associated with better quality of life, including sexual function, urinary function, and vitality, so it’s a win-win on both levels,” she stated.

The Power of Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory Compounds: Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which have been shown to protect against prostate cancer. Prior research has consistently demonstrated the importance of dietary factors for overall health and well-being. Making small changes in one’s diet each day can have cumulative benefits, supporting both cancer management and general health.

Practical Tips for a Plant-Based Diet: Switching to a plant-based diet doesn’t mean you need to eliminate all animal products immediately. Here are some practical steps to get started:

1. Increase Fruit and Vegetable Intake: Aim to include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your daily meals. Start by adding an extra serving to your lunch and dinner.

2. Choose Whole Grains: Replace refined grains with whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread.

3. Incorporate Nuts and Legumes: Nuts and legumes are excellent sources of protein and can be used as snacks or added to meals.

4. Use Healthy Oils: Opt for vegetable oils like olive oil for cooking and dressings.

5. Gradual Changes: Gradually reduce the amount of meat and dairy in your diet. You don’t have to eliminate them entirely but reducing their intake can make a significant difference.

Broader Implications for Men’s Health: Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men after non-melanoma skin cancer. The findings of this study are particularly relevant given the increasing popularity of plant-based diets in the country. By adopting a plant-based diet, men with prostate cancer may not only manage their disease more effectively but also enjoy improved overall health.

The research from UC San Francisco offers a hopeful message for men battling prostate cancer. By incorporating more fruits, vegetables, nuts, and olive oil into their diets, they can significantly reduce the risk of their cancer progressing. This simple yet powerful dietary change can also provide numerous other health benefits, making it a highly recommended strategy for those looking to improve their quality of life and overall well-being.