Holistic & Integrative Approaches to Prostate Cancer

In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Aditya Bagrodia and Dr. Geo Espinosa discuss a holistic and integrative approach to preventing and treating prostate cancer. They delve into four areas of well-being: diet, sleep, exercise, and nutraceuticals/supplements.

In a low-risk patient on active surveillance, Dr. Espinosa recommends a Mediterranean diet that includes fish, plants, and whole grains. He notes that intermittent fasting may be helpful but warns against a ketogenic diet, as prostate cancer relies on lipid metabolism. Additionally, because sleep strengthens the immune system and reduces chronic inflammation, he notes that patients should limit their screen time before bed and get at least six to eight hours of quality sleep every night. In terms of exercise, committing to four to six hours of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and strength resistance a week has been proven to cause regression of prostate cancer cells. Finally, some anti-cancer supplements he recommends are: curcumin, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, fish oil, zinc, selenium, and green tea extract (EGCG).

In patients with advanced prostate cancer, he notes that all his prior recommendations should be followed even more closely. Patients with prostate cancer must adhere to stricter diets and prioritize weight training even more, especially if they are on hormone replacement therapy. Additionally in hormone replacement therapy patients, acupuncture or black cohosh can alleviate hot flashes, and magnesium can be prescribed for sleep optimization.