Bedfordshire researchers create broccoli and pomegranate-based supplement in hopes of slowing prostate cancer
The team from the University of Bedfordshire say men who took a supplement made from broccoli, turmeric, pomegranate and other plant foods, with or without a probiotic, saw signs their cancer was slowed
A new study led by a team from the University of Bedfordshire suggests a diet rich in vegetables and probiotics could help slow the progression of low-risk prostate cancer.
Working alongside researchers from Cambridge University Hospitals, Bedford Hospital, and international scientists from California and Perth, the team explored the link between gut health and prostate cancer growth—known as the “gut-prostate axis.”
The study, published in the European Urology Oncology journal, saw 212 men with low-risk prostate cancer being split into two groups. One group received a specially designed supplement combining phytochemical-rich foods like broccoli, turmeric, and cranberry, while the other group had the same supplement plus a probiotic.
Researchers measured progression using PSA tests and MRI scans over a four-month period. PSA, or prostate-specific antigen, is a blood marker linked to prostate conditions. Results showed that PSA progression slowed in both groups, with the supplement-and-probiotic group experiencing the greatest benefit.
MRI results revealed a larger percentage of men in the supplement-and-probiotic group had stable disease or even regression, compared to the placebo group.
Academics praised the findings as clinically significant, highlighting the possible role of probiotics in reducing PSA progression and inflammation markers, which could help more men remain on “active surveillance” rather than undergoing treatment or surgery.
Professor Robert Thomas from the University of Bedfordshire, who led the study, emphasised the importance of gut bacteria balance in slowing prostate cancer activity.
“This study shows, for the first time, that improving the balance of bacteria in the gut can slow prostate cancer activity while also improving aspects of men's health such as urinary symptoms, inflammation and physical strength,” he said.
Dr Jeffrey Aldous, senior lecturer at the university, noted how targeted dietary strategies might improve not just cancer-related markers but also overall wellbeing.
The authors called for longer-term studies to verify the findings, adding that balanced health-focused lifestyle changes, including exercise and omega-3-rich diets, may further support prostate cancer management.
Dr Hayley Luxton of Prostate Cancer UK welcomed the research, describing it as encouraging and adding to growing evidence on the benefits of healthy eating and gut health.