Clinical trial links plant-rich nutrition and probiotics to lower PSA progression and better quality of life for men under active surveillance
A plant-rich diet combined with probiotics may help slow the progression of prostate cancer and improve quality of life in men under active surveillance, according to a new clinical study conducted in the United Kingdom.
The research, led by scientists at the University of Bedfordshire, examined 212 men with low-risk prostate cancer, a condition that often advances slowly and is commonly managed through monitoring rather than immediate treatment. Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among men and often presents without noticeable symptoms in its early stages.
The study focused on whether targeted nutritional interventions could influence biological markers associated with tumor activity while also improving everyday health outcomes.
Significant reduction in PSA progression
All participants received a daily supplement containing broccoli, turmeric, pomegranate, green tea, ginger, and blueberry, foods known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Half of the group also received a probiotic from the Lactobacillus genus, while the other half received a placebo.
After four months of clinical follow-up—including blood tests and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)—researchers found that all participants experienced a slowing in the rise of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a key indicator used to track prostate cancer progression.
However, the group that combined the plant-based supplement with probiotics showed a 44.6% greater reduction in PSA progression compared with those who did not receive probiotics. PSA progression was detected in 18% of men who took only the plant-based supplement, versus 7.8% in the group that also received probiotics. Notably, some men in the probiotic group showed signs of tumor regression, a finding not observed in the comparison group.
Unusually for nutrition-focused studies, the PSA results were supported by corresponding changes visible on MRI scans, strengthening the clinical significance of the findings.
Benefits beyond cancer markers
The study also documented improvements that extended beyond laboratory measurements. Men who received both the plant-based supplement and probiotics reported better urinary flow, less nighttime urgency, and reduced erectile dysfunction. They also showed lower levels of systemic inflammation and greater grip strength, indicators associated with overall physical function.
Researchers emphasized that these quality-of-life improvements are especially meaningful for men living with prostate cancer under active surveillance, a strategy that can involve years of monitoring and uncertainty.
“This is the first time we’ve seen clear evidence that improving gut bacterial balance can slow prostate cancer activity while also enhancing important aspects of men’s health,” the research team said.
A critical clinical context
More than half of men who choose active surveillance for low-risk prostate cancer eventually undergo surgery or radiation within five years, despite the fact that fewer than 5% die during that time. Experts believe this often reflects concerns about disease progression rather than immediate clinical necessity.
The study suggests that dietary approaches—when used alongside medical supervision—could help some patients remain on active surveillance longer and potentially avoid or delay invasive treatments.
This is particularly relevant for communities where access to early care and preventive health education remains uneven, including many Latino populations in the United States.
Limitations and next steps
Researchers cautioned that the study’s follow-up period was limited to four months, making it impossible to determine whether the benefits persist long term or reduce the need for surgery or radiation therapy.
Further clinical trials with longer monitoring periods and larger patient groups are planned to assess whether these nutritional strategies can play a sustained role in prostate cancer management.
A complementary approach, not a replacement
While the findings are promising, experts stress that plant-based supplements and probiotics should not replace conventional treatments. Instead, they may serve as complementary tools to support prostate health and overall well-being under professional medical guidance.
The study adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that diet and gut health can influence cancer biology—offering new insight into less invasive ways to support men living with prostate cancer.
