A recent study suggests that enhancing the diets of cancer patients with nutritious food and beneficial bacteria may impede tumor growth. In an international trial involving prostate cancer patients, the use of supplements led to a slowdown in the progression of a key prostate cancer indicator in the bloodstream. Men who received a supplement rich in vegetables like broccoli, turmeric, pomegranate, green tea, ginger, and cranberry experienced improvements in urinary symptoms over a four-month period.
Additionally, the inclusion of a probiotic containing Lactobacillus bacteria seemed to lower levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood, a marker of disease advancement. Lead researcher Professor Robert Thomas emphasized that enhancing gut bacteria balance could not only decelerate prostate cancer activity but also enhance men’s health in terms of urinary symptoms, inflammation, and physical strength.
Probiotics, known for their health benefits, consist of live bacteria and yeasts and are commonly found in yogurts or as dietary supplements. Maintaining a healthy balance of microorganisms in the gut, also known as the microbiome, is vital for overall health. Disruptions in the microbiome can occur due to illness, medication, or a diet lacking in fresh, whole foods.
The trial, led by experts from the University of Bedfordshire in collaboration with institutions in the UK, the US, and Australia, recruited 212 men with low-risk prostate cancer. Participants were provided with a supplement rich in phytochemicals known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. During the study, researchers observed a significant slowdown in PSA progression in both groups, with a more pronounced effect in the probiotic group.
The study, published in the European Urology Oncology journal, revealed that a higher percentage of men who received the supplement and probiotic combination maintained stable disease compared to those who had the supplement and a placebo. The findings underscored the potential benefits of targeted dietary strategies on gut microbiome, impacting cancer-related markers and overall well-being.
Dr. Jeffrey Aldous, a senior lecturer at the University of Bedfordshire, highlighted the significance of dietary interventions in influencing gut health and cancer-related markers for improved quality of life. Dr. Hayley Luxton, speaking on behalf of Prostate Cancer UK, acknowledged the study’s positive implications on prostate cancer progression and emphasized the importance of a balanced, healthy diet for optimal outcomes.