How could diet affect prostate cancer?

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    Last Updated: October 13, 2024

    A Western dietary pattern rich in animal-based protein, dairy products, and refined carbohydrates tends to be associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, whereas a healthy plant-based dietary pattern (e.g., the Mediterranean diet) tends to be associated with a decreased risk of prostate cancer.[1][2] Concerning specific dietary factors, a notable body of evidence indicates that a high intake of dairy products is associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer,[1] while fairly consistent evidence indicates a high intake of lycopene from tomato products is associated with a decreased risk of prostate cancer.[3][4] Also, obesity increases the risk of advanced prostate cancer, so a hypocaloric diet that facilitates weight loss is often beneficial in this population.