Research has shown that 6 foods and 5 probiotic strains can restrict the rate of growth of a cancer - in this case prostate cancer.
This research exposes oncologists who tell their patients that changing their diet to fight cancer makes no difference. It does.
The Clinical Trial
In a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, led by Professor Robert Thomas of Addenbrooke’s Cambridge, 212 men with indolent but progressing prostate cancer were given six concentrated foods and five lactobacillus probiotic strains. The average age of the men was 74.5 years. None was being treated for prostate cancer, all other supplementation was stopped, and demographics were equal in the two groups - those taking the product, and those taking a placebo.
The 6 whole foods provided were both whole purified foods and concentrated extracts. They not only significantly slowed PSA progression but improved urinary symptoms and erectile function.
The foods - and their benefits
These foods and concentrates were -
Broccoli - broccoli contains high levels of Indole 3 carbinol, which supports hormone balance, promotes liver detoxification, and restricts certain cancers (breast, prostate) by managing and limiting oestrogen metabolism. Has anti-androgen and anti-cancer effects on prostate cells.
Organic Ginger - whole ginger extract inhibits the growth and progression of prostate cancer cells; active compounds such as gingerols and shogaols, help suppress inflammatory pathways. Ginger also inhibits 5-alpha reductase (5αR), which increases levels of prostate cancer-causing DiHydroTestosterone (DHT).
Turmeric - powerful anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties that may inhibit tumour growth, reduce PSA levels, and ease urinary symptoms from enlarged prostate (BPH); It helps prevent cancer cell spread and reduce chronic inflammation. Turmeric, specifically its active compound curcumin, acts as a natural 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, potentially lowering DHT levels and blocking androgen activity
Pomegranate - contains potent polyphenol antioxidants such as resveratrol; pomegranate improves heart health, reduces inflammation, and supports immune function. Research suggests it may also boost exercise endurance, support cognitive health, aid digestion, and have antimicrobial properties. Pomegranate acts as a natural inhibitor of 5-alpha reductase and androgen signaling, potentially reducing the conversion of testosterone to DHT.
Cranberry - also contains resveratrol, lowers cholesterol and polyphenols that prevent E. coli from sticking to the urinary tract walls, reducing the risk of UTIs. Cranberry is packed with bioactive polyphenols—mainly A-type proanthocyanidins (PACs), anthocyanins, flavonols, and phenolic acids. Cranberry is also a natural inhibitor of 5-alpha reductase and DHT production.
Green Tea - can collect in the prostate and contains high levels of catechins (specifically EGCG), which offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic properties that may lower prostate cancer risk, inhibit tumor growth, and reduce PSA levels. Regular consumption is linked to slower disease progression and improved cell regulation. EGCG is a strong natural inhibitor of 5-alpha reductase.
The probiotic element in the trial
Next, the men in the trial were randomised (1:1) to receive either a placebo or the Probiotic blend of 5 lactobacillus probiotics for 16 weeks. The lactobacillus blend had a delayed-release capsule, which also contained a good quantity of inulin and some vitamin D. The inulin is a prebiotic, and the probiotics are known to encourage vitamin absorption.
Results
When the men took both the foods and the probiotics, their PSA progression slowed by 44%.
In men whose final MRI reported some progression, the PSA rate increased 6%.
But in men whose MRI reported regression, the rate decreased by 51%.
Changes on the MRI favoured the combined group, showing regression in 6.7%, and progression in 7.8% vs regression in 0% and progression in 18% in the men taking a placebo.
What does this mean?
“It’s really great to have this research.” said Oxford University biochemist and founder of CANCERactive Chris Woollams. “What the research means is that dietary changes do influence cancer progression. And improvements in the gut microbiome - your crucial Health Control Centre - also make a difference to restricting cancer progression and increasing patient survival times. What was also interesting is in the group whose PSA fell, their actual prostate cancer diminished”.
“For men reading this, we use almost all the compounds above when building personal programmes, adding lycopene and holy basil as other compounds having significant benefits with prostate cancer. Zinc also restricts 5-alpha reductase. The Interview with Professor Robert Thomas on this research is on my YouTube Channel here - https://youtu.be/EMD-cfpqVkg
If you want to know more -
Go to: 5-alpha reductase and prostate cancer
Go to: 3 foods starve prostate cancer of glutamate