Prostate Cancer Management on Active Surveillance: The Role of Diet and Exercise
If you or someone you know is on active surveillance (AS) for prostate cancer, lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise might offer powerful natural support. The Prostate Cancer Active Lifestyle Study (PALS) explored the impact of weight loss, fitness, and diet on men with prostate cancer who were overweight or obese. Men who participated in PALS made simple, yet impactful changes to their diet and activity levels, resulting in significant improvements in weight, metabolic health, and overall quality of life. But the key takeaway was that these men potentially slowed the progression of their cancer while avoiding aggressive treatments.
Why Diet and Exercise Matter
Prostate cancer is often slow-growing, and many men opt for active surveillance (AS) instead of immediate treatment. AS involves regular monitoring without initiating therapies like surgery or radiation unless the cancer shows signs of progression. While AS can help men avoid the side effects of treatment, it can feel like a passive approach. This is where lifestyle interventions, such as diet and exercise, can play a more active role.
Studies show that excess body weight is linked to faster progression of prostate cancer. Obesity is associated with more aggressive forms of prostate cancer and can raise levels of insulin and inflammatory markers—both of which may promote cancer growth. By losing weight through diet and exercise, men may reduce these risks and improve their overall health.
For example, the PALS study demonstrated that men who followed a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins—while engaging in regular physical activity—experienced improved fitness, lower body fat, and better blood sugar control. These changes could potentially slow the progression of prostate cancer while boosting overall health.
What the Research Says
Beyond PALS, there is a growing body of evidence supporting diet and exercise as important tools in managing prostate cancer on AS. Research suggests that certain foods, like tomatoes (rich in lycopene) and cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli and cauliflower), may help slow cancer cell growth. Lycopene has been linked to reduced cancer cell proliferation, and cruciferous vegetables contain sulforaphane, a compound believed to have anti-cancer properties.
Studies have also found that exercise—particularly moderate aerobic activity like walking or cycling—can lower the risk of prostate cancer progression. Regular physical activity improves blood flow, reduces inflammation, and promotes the release of endorphins, which can help manage stress. Managing stress is crucial, as stress-related hormones like cortisol have been linked to tumor growth.
Natural Supplements: Do They Help?
Some men also consider natural supplements alongside diet and exercise. While it’s essential to talk with a doctor before introducing any new supplements, some studies suggest potential benefits from certain botanicals. For instance:
Green tea: Rich in polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), green tea has shown potential in slowing cancer cell growth in prostate cancer.
Pomegranate: Pomegranate juice has been studied for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and early research indicates it may help slow prostate cancer progression.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish oil, omega-3s are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and may play a role in cancer prevention.
Bringing it All Together
For men on active surveillance, incorporating lifestyle changes—particularly diet and exercise—into a daily routine can offer a proactive way to manage prostate cancer. The PALS study highlighted the potential of these interventions to not only improve overall health but also slow cancer progression. This emerging evidence continues to support the role of certain foods, exercise and supplements as part of a comprehensive, integrative plan to manage prostate cancer while enhancing quality of life.
