What if your diet could really change the course of cancer? This is what an American study published in December 2024 suggests in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. According to this work, consuming more fish, nuts and olive oil, while limiting industrial products rich in omega-6 such as chips, cookies or mayonnaise, could slow down the progression of prostate cancer at an early stage.
Reduced risks of 15 %
The study focused on 100 men diagnosed with prostate cancer at low or intermediate risks, and having opted for active surveillance – a strategy which consists in regularly monitoring the evolution of the disease without intervening immediately, in order to avoid heavy treatments as long as it is not necessary. These men were divided into two groups: the first continued its usual regime, while the second adopted a diet poor in omega-6 and rich in omega-3, supplemented by fish oil capsules.
In parallel, they received advice on reviewing their diet: swapping oily dressing against olive oil, prefer oily fish like salmon, add nuts to their meals and avoid the processed food as much as possible.
After a year, the researchers have analyzed a biomarker called Ki-67 index, which indicates how fast the cancer cells are multiplying. Result: the group that has changed food saw its index decrease by 15 %, while that of the patients who remained on their conventional diet increased by 24 %.
A simple measure for many effects
“”This is an important step towards understanding how food can potentially influence the results of prostate cancer“Explains Dr. William Aronson, UCLA urology professor and the main study of the study.
“”Many men wish to change their lifestyle, including their diet, to help them manage their cancer and prevent the progression of their illness.“”
Admittedly, other markers of cancer progression have not shown a significant difference, but the effect observed on cell proliferation is promising. For Dr. Aronson, these results pave the way for a complementary approach: “A measure as simple as the adjustment of your diet could potentially slow the growth of cancer and extend the time before more aggressive interventions are necessary.“”
Clearly: if the regime alone is not enough to cure, it could help to slow down the evolution of the disease, save time and improve the quality of life of patients. A simple but powerful lever, which gives a real role to the patient in the management of his health.