Best & Worst Supplements for Prostate Cancer Risk

Supplements for Prostate Cancer: Insights and Research

Prostate cancer is the most common non-cutaneous cancer among men in the United States. Based on data from 2017 to 2019, it is estimated that 12.6% of U.S. men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetimes.

Calcium and Prostate Cancer

Calcium is a widely consumed nutrient in the United States, sourced primarily from food and dietary supplements. Research into the link between calcium and prostate cancer primarily focuses on dietary sources such as dairy products. Some studies suggest that high total calcium intake may be associated with an increased risk of advanced and metastatic prostate cancer. However, the NIH states that further research is needed to clarify calcium and dairy products' effects on prostate cancer risk.

Green Tea and Prostate Cancer Prevention

Green tea has shown potential protective effects against various forms of cancer, including prostate cancer. EGCG, a compound in green tea, has been identified as a potent modulator of prostate carcinogenesis. It acts as an androgen antagonist, suppresses prostate cancer cell proliferation, reduces prostate-specific antigen (PSA) production, and demonstrates selective proapoptotic activity in prostate cancer cells. In populations with high green tea consumption, such as Asian countries, prostate cancer mortality rates are among the lowest globally. However, risk increases when dietary habits change upon migration to Western countries.

Vitamin D and Prostate Cancer

Vitamin D may impact prostate cancer cells through various pathways. Epidemiological studies and some clinical trials have explored the role of calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, in prostate cancer patients. For individuals with limited sun exposure, vitamin D3 supplementation is a viable alternative to maintain optimal levels.

Vitamin E and Its Complex Role

Vitamin E is naturally found in foods like nuts, egg yolks, and vegetable oil, although caution is advised with vegetable oil. Studies suggest that TAP (alpha-tocopherol–associated protein) may act as a tumor suppressor in prostate cancer. The SELECT trial, initiated by the NIH, found that men taking vitamin E alone had a 17% increase in prostate cancer risk. Further analysis indicated that selenium supplementation in men with high baseline selenium status increased the risk of high-grade prostate cancer, while vitamin E had no effect in this group.

Lycopene and Prostate Cancer

Lycopene, found in foods like tomatoes, may inhibit androgen receptor expression and reduce prostate cancer cell proliferation. Although animal studies suggest chemo-preventive effects, human trials have yielded inconsistent results. Clinical trials using lycopene have demonstrated good tolerance at doses ranging from 10 to 120 mg/day, with mild gastrointestinal side effects in some cases.

Pomegranate and Prostate Cancer

Pomegranate juice and extracts inhibit prostate cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis in dose-dependent ways. Rodent models suggest that pomegranate juice reduces prostate cancer growth and spread. Clinical trials have shown improved PSA doubling time in participants consuming 8 oz of pomegranate juice daily, with no reported serious adverse effects.

Citrus Pectin and Cancer Growth

Modified citrus pectin (MCP), derived from citrus fruit peel and pulp, may influence cancer growth and metastasis through various mechanisms. Preclinical research supports its potential benefits, although human studies are limited.

Zyflamend: An Herbal Supplement

Zyflamend, a blend of extracts from herbs such as turmeric, ginger, and green tea, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties in preclinical studies. It has shown anticancer activity as a single agent and in combination with chemotherapy. A phase I study reported no serious toxicity associated with its use.

African Cherry and Prostate Health

The bark of the African cherry tree (Pygeum africanum) has long been used for urinary symptoms and gastric pain. In Europe, it is prescribed for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Extracts from the bark contain androgen receptor inhibitors, which have shown activity in vitro and in animal studies.

Selenium and Prostate Cancer

Selenium is an essential trace mineral involved in enzyme regulation, gene expression, and immune function. Epidemiological studies suggest a complex relationship between selenium levels and prostate cancer risk. While some research indicates an inverse relationship, results from the SELECT trial showed no significant difference in prostate cancer rates among men taking selenium supplements. However, men with high baseline selenium levels faced an increased risk of high-grade prostate cancer when supplemented.

Final Thoughts

While the supplements discussed here show varying degrees of potential in prostate cancer prevention and management, further research is required to establish definitive conclusions. Men concerned about prostate cancer are encouraged to undergo PSA testing and consult with a medical professional.

This information is not medical advice. Readers are urged to consult the referenced studies and seek guidance from healthcare providers before pursuing any supplement regimen.

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Study Links:

1.       National Cancer Institute: SEER Stat Fact Sheets: Prostate. Bethesda, Md: National Cancer Institute. Available online. Last accessed October 25, 2023.

2.       McDermott CL, Blough DK, Fedorenko CR, et al.: Complementary and alternative medicine use among newly diagnosed prostate cancer patients. Support Care Cancer 20 (1): 65-73, 2012. [PUBMED Abstract]

3.       Westerlund A, Steineck G, Bälter K, et al.: Dietary supplement use patterns in men with prostate cancer: the Cancer Prostate Sweden study. Ann Oncol 22 (4): 967-72, 2011. [PUBMED Abstract]

4.       Eng J, Ramsum D, Verhoef M, et al.: A population-based survey of complementary and alternative medicine use in men recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. Integr Cancer Ther 2 (3): 212-6, 2003. [PUBMED Abstract]

5.       Boon H, Westlake K, Stewart M, et al.: Use of complementary/alternative medicine by men diagnosed with prostate cancer: prevalence and characteristics. Urology 62 (5): 849-53, 2003. [PUBMED Abstract]

6.       Wilkinson S, Farrelly S, Low J, et al.: The use of complementary therapy by men with prostate cancer in the UK. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 17 (5): 492-9, 2008. [PUBMED Abstract]

7.       Bauer CM, Ishak MB, Johnson EK, et al.: Prevalence and correlates of vitamin and supplement usage among men with a family history of prostate cancer. Integr Cancer Ther 11 (2): 83-9, 2012. [PUBMED Abstract]

8.       Barqawi A, Gamito E, O'Donnell C, et al.: Herbal and vitamin supplement use in a prostate cancer screening population. Urology 63 (2): 288-92, 2004. [PUBMED Abstract]

9.       Velicer CM, Ulrich CM: Vitamin and mineral supplement use among US adults after cancer diagnosis: a systematic review. J Clin Oncol 26 (4): 665-73, 2008. [PUBMED Abstract]

10.    Singh H, Maskarinec G, Shumay DM: Understanding the motivation for conventional and complementary/alternative medicine use among men with prostate cancer. Integr Cancer Ther 4 (2): 187-94, 2005. [PUBMED Abstract]