Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men in Australia, accounting for a quarter of all new cancer diagnoses.

Did you know?

• By age 85, one in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer.
• The risk of developing prostate cancer increases sharply after 50 years of age.
• It is the third most common cause of cancer-related deaths in Australia.

However, there are evidence-based nutritional strategies that can help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer and potentially influence the severity of the disease. Ongoing research continues to provide insights into how we can prevent prostate cancer and create a body environment that discourages its growth. This proactive approach, known as active risk reduction, is a key focus in naturopathic oncology.

Risk Factors

Prostate cancer is largely driven by inflammation and hormonal changes. The risk factors are well-defined and include:

• BRCA Gene: A genetic factor you can test for.
• Lifestyle: Smoking, obesity, and a family history of prostate cancer significantly increase your risk. If any of these apply to you, consider making dietary changes and seeking support to develop long-term, healthy habits.

What Does Science Say About the Best Diet?

When it comes to dietary strategies to prevent or manage prostate cancer, there are two key aspects: a strong dietary foundation and the inclusion of specific foods known to support prostate health.

Dietary Foundations

Mediterranean Diet:
The Mediterranean diet is widely recognised as beneficial for prostate cancer prevention and management. Rich in olive oil, oily fish, legumes, tomatoes, and various plants, this diet provides anti-inflammatory and immune-regulating support to prostate cells.

Key Nutritional Elements

Tomatoes and Lycopene:
Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to lower PSA levels in men with localised prostate cancer. Consuming as little as 30mg of lycopene daily can have a protective effect. For example, 240mL of tomato juice contains 23mg of lycopene, and 100g of raw chopped tomatoes contain 3mg of lycopene. By including tomatoes in a Mediterranean diet, you can easily boost your lycopene intake.

Plant-Based Mediterranean Diet:
A plant-based Mediterranean diet is also highly effective, particularly due to the fibre-rich foods it includes. The brassica family, especially broccoli and cauliflower, deserves special mention. Research shows that men who eat broccoli more than once a week have a 45% lower risk of advanced prostate cancer, while those who consume cauliflower cut their risk by 52%.

Soy Isoflavones:
Soy isoflavones offer a 30% reduction in prostate cancer risk, particularly for older men aged 60 and above. Studies show that consuming soy is protective, especially when combined with flaxseed, another source of plant oestrogens. Soybeans, soy milk, tofu, tempeh, and miso are all good sources of soy isoflavones, with recommended daily servings ranging from 50 to 200 grams.

Emerging Research: The Microbiome

Recent research highlights the importance of a healthy microbiome in preventing prostate cancer. A plant-based diet supports a thriving microbiome, rich in anti-inflammatory flora, which is a cornerstone of our cancer support care at CK Health. All of our naturopaths are trained in testing and analysing the gut microbiome.

Foods to Be Cautious With

Dairy:
Emerging evidence suggests that whole milk may increase the risk of prostate cancer, while other types of dairy appear safe when consumed in moderation. It’s advisable to limit your dairy intake to the following:

• 400g/day for total dairy
• 200g/day for whole milk
• 400g/day for cheese
• 50g/day for butter

For those concerned about calcium needs, individual dietary assessments and tailored strategies can help ensure bone health without exceeding these limits.

Prostate Cancer: A Catalyst for Long-Term Lifestyle Change

Prostate cancer presents an opportunity for a long-term lifestyle reassessment—a chance to make positive, health-promoting changes.

What is Naturopathic Oncology Care?

Naturopathic oncology care is an integrative approach that uses plant medicines, nutritional support, and lifestyle interventions to prevent and treat disease. We focus on the whole person, considering your unique needs and circumstances. Our treatments are personalised, taking into account your genetics and lifestyle, ensuring a good fit for you.

What Can It Provide?

Naturopathic oncology care offers comprehensive health support, often addressing gaps that conventional biomedicine may not fully cover, such as recovery after surgery or radiation and managing side effects from treatment.

What Can’t It Do?

While naturopathic oncology care provides valuable support, it does not diagnose or treat cancer in the same way as conventional treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. It is most effective when used in conjunction with biomedicine and in collaboration with your healthcare team, including your GP.

This article was written by Cath. She has 30 years of clinical experience and holds a Master’s of Science and postgraduate qualifications in Integrative Naturopathic Oncology. She is well-equipped to support you during your oncology treatment and in maintaining long-term health post-treatment. Learn more about Cath here.

To book a free 20 minute health assessment with any of our Naturopaths click here.

References
https://ncci.canceraustralia.gov.au/diagnosis/cancer-incidence/cancer-incidence
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28884114/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12424329/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35790788/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12235639/
https://www.goldjournal.net/article/S0090-4295(04)00436-4/abstract
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29300347/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8931954/figure/F3/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3273617/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35945656/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38402385/