Gut health and phytochemicals in prostate cancer: Current study results

Gut health and phytochemicals in prostate cancer: Current study results

A recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigated the effect of a phytochemical-rich diet in combination with probiotic supplementation in men with low-risk, progressive prostate cancer.

The study was conducted by an interdisciplinary team of oncologists, urologists and nutritionists and presented at an international conference.

Background: Gut microbiome and prostate cancer

The gut microbiome comprises trillions of microorganisms, which include, among other things:

• are involved in the regulation of inflammatory processes
• affect the immune system
• modulating metabolic processes

Scientific studies suggest that the microbiome may also play a role in the regulation of hormone-dependent processes.

Study design

Participants were men with histologically confirmed prostate cancer who were not receiving hormone therapy. Some were on active surveillance, others showed a PSA recurrence after surgery or radiation therapy.

All study participants received a capsule rich in phytochemicals containing standardized plant substances. They were then randomly assigned to either:

• additionally with a probiotic
• or with a placebo

provided.

The study design was double-blind, so neither participants nor researchers knew who received which intervention.

Composition of the phytochemical-rich intervention

The tested formulation contained standardized extracts from, among other things:

• pomegranate
• broccoli
• Green tea
• turmeric
• Cranberry
• Ginger

The product was manufactured under controlled quality conditions with standardized measurement of active ingredients.

Results of the study

PSA progression

In the group that received only the phytochemical-rich intervention, the PSA doubling time increased significantly during the observation period. In the group with combined phytochemical and probiotic supplementation, a statistically significant change in the PSA trend was observed compared to the placebo group.

MRI findings

Accompanying MRI scans showed stable findings in the majority of participants. Changes were documented in a few participants. The evaluation of these data is still being scientifically analyzed.

Possible mechanisms of action

In research, phytochemicals are associated with, among other things, the following mechanisms:

• Modulation of inflammation-related signaling pathways
• antioxidant processes
• Supporting the intestinal barrier
• Influence on the bacterial balance in the gut

Probiotic bacterial strains can influence the microbial composition of the gut and may contribute to the metabolism of plant ingredients.

Interpretation of the results

The study provides evidence that a combination of a phytochemical-rich diet and probiotic supplementation may be associated with changes in certain clinical markers.

The authors emphasize that further studies are needed to better understand long-term effects and the transferability to other patient groups.

Significance for patients

The interventions studied were used as complementary nutritional measures. They do not replace medical therapy. Lifestyle measures, including a high-fiber diet and promoting gut health, are increasingly discussed as supportive strategies within a holistic care approach.

Original study info:

By Prof. Thomas, September 2024

Thomas, R. (2024, September 29). Gut health and prostate cancer . Keep Healthy. https://keep-healthy.com/gut-health-and-prostate-cancer/