Diet and Prostate Cancer

Twin studies suggest that 45% of prostate cancers are caused by genetics and migration studies have confirmed the strong influence (55% of prostate cancers) of environmental factors on the risk of developing prostate cancer.

An individual’s genetic make-up cannot be altered but environmental influences, the most important of which are dietary, can be modified to reduce this risk.

The following have been shown in medical studies to:

Reduce the risk of prostate cancer

• Vitamins A, D & E
• Selenium – found in Brazil nuts
• Carotenoids – especially lycopene, found in (particularly cooked) tomatoes
• Phytoestrogens – especially soy products, as well as cereals, fruit and vegetables
• Chinese green tea

Increase the risk of prostate cancer

• A diet which is heavy in animal fat
• Obesity