Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men, with over 191,000 new cases diagnosed in the United States in 2020.

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer, research has suggested that certain dietary supplements may help reduce the risk of developing the condition. In this article, we will examine the effectiveness of dietary supplements in preventing prostate cancer.

What Are Prostate Supplements?

Dietary supplements are products that contain one or more ingredients intended to supplement one’s diet. Prostate supplements are those designed to help improve prostate health.

These supplements can come in the form of pills, capsules, powders, or liquids and typically contain a combination of ingredients that are claimed to help improve urinary function, relieve symptoms of an enlarged prostate, and reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

Vitamin D and Prostate Cancer

Vitamin D is a vital nutrient that is essential for bone health and immune function. Recent studies have suggested that men with higher levels of vitamin D in their bloodstream are less likely to develop prostate cancer.

One study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that men with higher levels of vitamin D were 45% less likely to develop aggressive forms of prostate cancer. Another study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that men with higher levels of vitamin D had a 57% reduced risk of developing advanced prostate cancer.

Selenium and Prostate Cancer

Selenium is a trace mineral that is essential for many physiological functions in the body, including immune function and DNA synthesis. Research has suggested that selenium may help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer.

One study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that men who took a daily supplement containing 200 micrograms of selenium had a 23% lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to men who took a placebo.

Lycopene and Prostate Cancer

Lycopene is a carotenoid that is found in high amounts in tomatoes and other red fruits and vegetables. Research has suggested that lycopene may help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer.

One study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that men who had higher levels of lycopene in their blood had a 33% reduced risk of developing prostate cancer. Another study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that men who consumed more tomato-based products had a lower risk of developing prostate cancer.

Green Tea and Prostate Cancer

Green tea is a type of tea that is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Green tea contains antioxidants known as catechins, which have been shown to help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, including prostate cancer.

One study published in the American Association for Cancer Research found that men who drank green tea had a 48% reduced risk of developing prostate cancer compared to men who did not drink green tea.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Prostate Cancer

Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that is found in fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel. Research has suggested that omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer.

One study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that men who consumed more fatty fish had a 34% reduced risk of developing prostate cancer.

Zinc and Prostate Cancer

Zinc is a mineral that is essential for many physiological functions in the body, including immune function and DNA synthesis. Research has suggested that zinc may help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer.

One study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that men with higher levels of zinc in their bloodstream had a lower risk of developing prostate cancer.

Saw Palmetto and Prostate Cancer

Saw palmetto is a plant that is native to the southeastern United States. Saw palmetto supplements are commonly used to help improve urinary function and relieve symptoms of an enlarged prostate.

While research has suggested that saw palmetto may be helpful for relieving prostate symptoms, there is no evidence to suggest that it can help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer.

Conclusion

While there are no guaranteed ways to prevent prostate cancer, research has suggested that certain dietary supplements may help reduce the risk of developing the condition.

Vitamin D, selenium, lycopene, green tea, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc have all been shown to have potential benefits in reducing the risk of prostate cancer. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new dietary supplement to ensure safety and effectiveness.