Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in men; during his lifetime, one in six men will be diagnosed with this condition, according to Prostate Cancer Network, Canada. Soybeans have been used in diet for thousands of years (UMMC), and they have also been evaluated for potential benefits in managing prostate cancer as well. If you have been diagnosed with a prostate disease and consider adding more soy to your diet or taking soy based supplements you should first talk to your health care provider.
Soy Diet
The soy diet is based on using soy products to replace some animal proteins from your diet. It is slightly different from a vegetarian diet that completely eliminates animal proteins. The soy diet will have increased content in fibers while eliminating foods that are high in saturated fat and cholesterol. Other important foods that are part of a healthy diet like fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and healthy vegetable oils are part of the soy diet.
Research
A soy-rich diet helps improve biochemical markers of prostate cancer in men diagnosed with prostate cancer, indicates a research team form Monash University, Australia. This study, published in September 2004 in the journal "Urology," found that four slices of bread rich in heat-treated soy grits consumed daily resulted in an improved prostate specific antigen, or PSA, as well as sex hormone levels.
Another study published in November 2010 in the "Journal of Hygiene Research" indicates there is an inverse correlation between consumption of high amounts of soy and risk of prostate or breast cancers.
A review of scientific studies that evaluated the health benefits of soy foods and soy supplements in the past 20 years was published in December 2010 issue of the "Journal of Nutrition." In relation to prostate health, the authors found evidence that soy decreases the risk of developing prostate cancer and inhibits the spread of cancerous cells to other organs.
Dietary Sources of Soy
Dietary sources of soy include soybeans, also called edamame, tofu, soy milk, soy cheese, soy yogurt and the traditional Japanese dishes miso, tempeh and natto. In addition, soy is also available as an over-the-counter supplement in North America.
Considerations
Consult a nutritionist who can recommend a healthy, balanced diet and the optimal amount of soy products for you. If you didn't consume soy foods, you should start with small amounts, as soy may trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Keep in mind that the soy diet does not replace and should not be used to replace any standard drugs or therapy recommended for prostate cancer.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Soy
- Prostate Cancer Network: Prostate Cancer, Statistics
- eDiets.com: Healthy Soy Meal Plan
- "Journal of Hygiene Research"; Research Development on Relation Between Equol and Soy Foods Health Effect; B. Liu, et al.; November 2010
- "Urology"; Effects of a Diet Rich in Phytoestrogens on Prostate-specific Antigen and Sex Hormones in Men Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer; F.S. Dalais, et al.; September 2004
- "Journal of Nutrition"; Insights Gained From 20 Years of Soy Research; M. Messina; December 2010
