If you’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer or an elevated PSA (prostate-specific antigen) level, you might feel like your options for treating it are limited. However, recent studies have shown that making significant lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on your PSA levels, potentially reversing or even stopping the progression of the disease.
A groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Urology in 2005 outlined steps men can take to lower their PSA levels and halt the progression of prostate cancer. The study involved 93 men with early, prostate biopsy-proven prostate cancer, who initially chose not to undergo conventional treatments. Instead, they were divided into two groups: one that followed a lifestyle intervention program (44 men) and a control group (49 men) that followed their doctor’s advice.
Lifestyle Changes to Lower PSA Levels
Here’s a breakdown of the lifestyle changes the intervention group followed, which led to positive results in lowering their PSA levels:
- Adopt a vegan diet: The men in the study consumed a whole food vegan diet, which means they did not consume any animal products. This diet significantly reduced their intake of saturated fat and cholesterol, with approximately 10% of their caloric intake coming from fat.
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Incorporate supplements: Participants supplemented their diet daily with 1 serving of tofu; 58 grams of a fortified soy protein powdered beverage; 3 grams of fish oil; 400 International Units of vitamin E; 200 micrograms of selenium; and 2 grams of vitamin C.
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Practice stress management: Every day, the men in the study practiced stress management for one hour. This included meditation, imagery and progressive relaxation, yoga stretching, and/or breathing exercises.
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Engage in physical exercise: The intervention group participated in vigorous walking for 30 minutes six days per week.
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Join a support group: The men attended a weekly one-hour support group to help them adhere to the program.
At the end of the trial, the intervention group saw an average decrease in their PSA levels, while the control group experienced an increase. Six men in the control group had to undergo treatment for disease advancement during the trial, further demonstrating the potential benefits of lifestyle changes for men with prostate cancer.
Understanding the Vegan Diet
It’s crucial to fully understand how a vegan diet works if you’re considering adopting one to improve your prostate health and lower your PSA levels. You may need to consult a knowledgeable dietitian or nutritionist who can provide guidance on this dietary approach. A well-structured vegan diet can provide the nutrients you need, with the exception of vitamin B12, which needs to be supplemented in some form.
Men who are on hypertension medication or insulin should consult with their doctor before starting a vegan diet, as it can have an impact on blood pressure and insulin resistance.
Additional Strategies for Lowering Your PSA Levels
In addition to the lifestyle changes outlined above, the American Cancer Society and the Prostate Cancer Foundation offer more tips for men looking to lower their PSA levels:
- Limit alcohol consumption: Studies have shown that excessive alcohol intake can increase your risk of developing prostate cancer, so it’s important to consume alcohol in moderation.
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Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity may be associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, so it’s important to maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
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Eliminate exposure to environmental toxins: Toxins found in certain pesticides and industrial chemicals have been linked to prostate cancer, so it’s essential to protect yourself from these harmful substances.
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Consider natural supplements: Some natural supplements, such as lycopene, pomegranate extract, and green tea, have been shown to potentially help reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
Overall, making positive lifestyle changes can have a profound impact on your prostate health and PSA levels. Committing to a healthy lifestyle may help prevent prostate cancer, slow its progression, and even lower your PSA levels. Remember to always consult with your healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or exercise routine.
