Influence of Diet and Nutrition on Prostate Cancer

Abstract

The incidence of prostate cancer (PCa) displays widespread regional differences, probably owing to differences in dietary habits. Nutrients, including fat, protein, carbohydrates, vitamins (vitamin A, D, and E), and polyphenols, potentially affect PCa pathogenesis and progression, as previously reported using animal models; however, clinical studies have reported controversial results for almost all nutrients. The effects of these nutrients may be manifested through various mechanisms including inflammation, antioxidant effects, and the action of sex hormones. Dietary patterns including the Western and Prudent patterns also influence the risk of PCa. Recent studies reported that the gut microbiota contribute to tumorigenesis in some organs. Diet composition and lifestyle have a direct and profound effect on the gut bacteria. Human studies reported an increase in the abundance of specific gut bacteria in PCa patients. Although there are few studies concerning their relationship, diet and nutrition could influence PCa, and this could be mediated by gut microbiota. An intervention of dietary patterns could contribute to the prevention of PCa. An intervention targeting dietary patterns may thus help prevent PCa.

The PTEN Conundrum: How to Target PTEN-Deficient Prostate Cancer

“…Finally, accelerated prostate cancer progression has also been associated with inflammation caused by a high-fat diet in PTEN-deficient prostate cancer mouse models, suggesting that alterations to patient diet and/or exercise regimens may be especially beneficial for those with PTEN-deficient disease [ 394 , 395 , 396 ]. Although the clinical data available are still not clear on which nutrients may offer the most protection, switching to a ketogenic diet which encourages the body to burn fat may prove to be a beneficial approach [ 217 ].…”

Understanding the Mechanisms of Diet and Outcomes in Colon, Prostate, and Breast Cancer; Malignant Gliomas; and Cancer Patients on Immunotherapy

“…Prostate cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in men after skin cancer and has the second highest cancer-related mortality [36]. Historically, it was widely believed that fat intake was both a risk factor for the development of prostate cancer and likely a contributor for worse outcomes [37]. In fact, animal model studies have provided proof for this claim; Ngo et al, among others, showed that immunodeficient mice, engrafted with a prostate cancer xenograft, had a slower tumor progression and a longer life span if fed a fat-restricted diet.…”

The Microbiome in Health and Disease from the Perspective of Modern Medicine and Ayurveda

“…Diet can rapidly alter the composition of the microbiome [ 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 ]. A western diet high in meat products, providing nutrients such as choline and carnitine, can cause certain gut bacteria to produce trimethylamine (TMA).…”