Eating healthy foods and incorporating beneficial bacteria into the diets of cancer patients may have a positive impact on slowing tumor growth, according to recent research findings.
A study involving prostate cancer patients revealed that taking supplements containing a mix of vegetables like broccoli, turmeric, pomegranate, green tea, ginger, and cranberry led to a decrease in a key prostate cancer indicator in the blood. Additionally, participants experienced improvements in urinary symptoms over a four-month period.
Combining the vegetable supplement with a probiotic containing Lactobacillus bacteria seemed to further reduce levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood, a marker for disease progression. Professor Robert Thomas, the lead author of the study, emphasized the potential benefits of enhancing gut bacteria balance in slowing down prostate cancer activity and improving men’s health aspects such as inflammation and physical strength.
Probiotics, known for their health benefits, are live microorganisms often found in yogurts or taken as supplements to help restore the natural bacterial balance in the gut. The microbiome, a delicate balance of microorganisms in the stomach and intestines, can be disrupted by illness, medications, or an inadequate diet lacking in fresh, whole foods. These microorganisms play a vital role in maintaining overall health and supporting the immune system.
The trial, conducted by a team from the University of Bedfordshire in collaboration with experts from Cambridge University, Bedford Hospital, and international scientists, involved 212 men with low-risk prostate cancer. The vegetable-rich supplement was chosen for its high content of phytochemicals, known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties.
Results showed a significant slowing of PSA progression in both groups, with a more pronounced effect observed in those participants taking the probiotic in addition to the supplement. MRI scans were also utilized to monitor disease progression during the study period.
Published in the European Urology Oncology journal, the study reported that a higher percentage of men who received the supplement and probiotic combination had stable disease or even experienced disease regression, highlighting the potential benefits of targeted dietary strategies in influencing gut microbiome for improved cancer-related outcomes and overall well-being.
Experts from various institutions, including Dr. Jeffrey Aldous and Dr. Hayley Luxton, emphasized the importance of diet and gut health in managing prostate cancer progression and overall health. While further research is warranted to fully understand the role of probiotics and supplements, maintaining a balanced and healthy diet is recommended for optimal health outcomes.
