Scientists from the University of South Australia have found that men who regularly eat colorful fruits and vegetables are less likely to develop prostate cancer. The research was published in the journal Cancers.
The researchers compared the concentration of micronutrients in the plasma of prostate cancer patients and healthy people. It turned out that men with low levels of lutein, lycopene, alpha-carotene and selenium, as well as high levels of iron, sulfur and calcium, were more likely to develop cancer.
Additionally, men who had radiation therapy for cancer had more DNA damage if their blood plasma had low levels of lycopene and selenium.
Plasma lycopene levels below 0.25 µg/mL and selenium levels below 120 µg/L were considered low.
Foods rich in lycopene include tomatoes, cantaloupe, papaya, grapes, peaches, watermelon, and cranberries. Selenium-rich foods include poultry, fish, shellfish, eggs, and nuts.
The study’s authors emphasized that, over previous studies, eating foods naturally rich in lycopene and selenium is preferable to taking supplements with limited benefits.
The scientists added that they recommend sticking to the Mediterranean diet with the help of a nutritionist. In addition, the risk of developing prostate cancer in close relatives, age, overweight and high growth increase the incidence of prostate cancer. A diet high in dairy products and low in vitamin E may also increase risk, but the evidence is less conclusive. Vitamin E is found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables.