A new study has found that a plant-based diet may hold promise in extending survival for prostate cancer patients. These are the findings of the study published in ‘JAMA Network Open’. Researchers looked at more than 2,000 men diagnosed with nonmetastatic prostate cancer and found that those with the highest intake of plant foods in the overall plant-based diet index had lower risk of prostate cancer progression compared with those with the lowest intake.

These findings suggest that eating a primarily plant based diet may be associated with better prostate cancer– specific health outcomes among men living with the disease. A plant-based diet is built around a plate filled with mostly vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans. Many types have been found to offer health advantages. How might choosing a diet that prioritizes plant foods help improve outcomes among patients with prostate cancer?

First, plants contain several cancer-fighting compounds, evidenced in their rainbow of colors. These compounds work together to reduce inflammation and cell damage, which can promote cancer growth. Additionally, plant-based diets low in calories and fiber help support a healthy weight, the most crucial lifestyle intervention to lower cancer risk.