The effects of diet and lifestyle on the progression of prostate cancer are difficult to study and research results are often conflicting. Nonetheless, many men who face prostate cancer look to a healthy low-fat diet with a high intake of vegetables as a way to keep their cancer from spreading. This question and answer on diet and prostate cancer comes from a recent issue of the Johns Hopkins Prostate Bulletin.
Q. I am 59 and was diagnosed with prostate cancer three years ago. I had a PSA of 8 ng/ml and a Gleason score of 7. I had proton beam radiation to eliminate the prostate cancer, but within 18 months my PSA started to rise.
I radically changed my diet after getting that horrible news and have now eliminated all caffeine and high-fat foods. My PSA dropped within a few months, and a recent bone scan has shown a definite tumor reduction. I want to believe that nutrition can play a powerful role in keeping the prostate cancer from spreading, but am I just deluding myself? Lake Hill, NY
Dr. Mostwin answers: Consider the inspiring story of Michael Milken. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1993 with evidence of spread to the lymph nodes. He devoted himself to researching lifestyle modifications that might help him beat the prostate cancer, and through extreme dietary changes and personal discipline, he continues to do well, remain active, and champion the cause for improved awareness and research into prostate cancer to help others.
You can learn more about his disease-fighting diet by looking at The Taste for Living Cookbook: Mike Milken's Favorite Recipes for Fighting Cancer, which he wrote with chef Beth Ginsburg (published by Milken's foundation, CaP CURE, in 1998; ISBN 0966080564).
