High levels of prostate-specific antigens, a type of protein, can indicate prostate cancer or an increased risk of developing it. Elevated levels, however, do not automatically spell cancer and can result from other causes, such as benign prostate conditions, like prostatitis, or an infection. The National Cancer Institute reports that only 25 percent to 35 percent of men who undergo biopsies because of high PSA levels actually end up having cancer. If your PSA readings are causing you concern, you might have some power in controlling your readings as research suggests that following a certain type of diet can lower your PSA levels and reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer.
Meat vs. Vegetable Protein
Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Medical School tested the effects of diet on previously treated prostate cancer patients who were experiencing increases in their PSA level, an indicator that the cancer might be recurring. The results of their study, published in the December 2008 issue of ''Urology,'' found that a diet rich in vegetable proteins and low in animal proteins reduced PSA doubling time, or the time it takes for PSA levels to increase by 100 percent. While this study was not examining interventions to lower PSA levels, it suggests that this dietary change positively affects prostate health.
A review of studies by researchers at the University of New South Wales in Australia, published in the June 2009 issue of the "Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics,'' found diets high in meat, particularly processed and charred meats, were associated with an increased risk in prostate cancer.
Good sources of vegetable protein include soy products, beans, legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains.
Eat a Plant-Based Diet
A study published in the September 2006 issue of ''Integrative Cancer Therapies'' had patients with recurrent prostate cancer and rising PSA levels follow a plant-based diet for six months. Participants increased their intake of fruits, vegetables and whole grains significantly, compared to their usual diet. Researchers found PSA levels decreased from the start of the study. The Australian study also found a diet high in fruits and vegetables, particularly broccoli, cauliflower and tomatoes, was linked to decreased risk of developing prostate cancer.
If you decide to follow a vegetarian diet, work with a registered dietitian who can help you plan an eating plan that provides all the necessary nutrients in the proper amounts. Cutting out animal products can often mean eliminating the primary sources of many nutrients.
Cut Back on Dairy
High intake of dairy products has been linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer, according to a meta-analysis of studies conducted by researchers at Tufts University. Their review, published in the December 2005 issue of the ''Journal of the National Cancer Institute," found that men who consumed the most dairy were 39 percent more likely to develop prostate cancer than men who consumed the least. This link requires more in-depth research, however. Discuss this dietary change with your doctor.
Eating the Proper Amount of Calories
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, created by the United States Department of Agriculture, offers guidance in determining your calorie requirements. Sedentary men who do not exert themselves beyond the requirements of day-to-day living require 2,000 to 2,200 calories. Moderately active men, which the guidelines define as walking 1.5 to 3 miles a day at a pace of 3 to 4 miles an hour, require 2,200 to 2,400 calories. Active men, defined as walking more than 3 miles a day at a pace of 3 to 4 miles per hour, need between 2,400 and 2,800 calories.
References
- Reuters; Low-Fat, Vegetarian Diet Slows PSA Doubling Time; January 2009
- Science Daily; Diet May Reduce Risk Of Prostate Cancer; June 2009
- ''Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics''; A Systematic Review of the Effect of Diet In Prostate Cancer Prevention and Treatment; R.W. Ma, et al.; June 2009
- ''Integrative Cancer Therapies''; Adoption of a Plant-Based Diet by Patients with Recurrent Prostate Cancer; J.Y. Nguyen, et al.; September 2006
- ''Journal of the National Cancer Institute''; Prospective Studies of Dairy Product and Calcium Intakes and Prostate Cancer Risk: A Meta-Analysis;Xiang Gao, et al.; December 2005
- United States Department of Agriculture:Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010 Chapter 2
