Can some vitamins help lower my chance of prostate cancer?
Most studies on vitamin and mineral supplements had disappointing results. Some appear to raise the risk of prostate cancer.
Multivitamins. One standard multivitamin every day has no effect on the risk of prostate cancer.
Vitamin B12 with folic acid
Vitamin B12 with folic acid High blood levels of these two vitamins have been linked to an increased risk of cancer in some studies. However, this isn't proof that the supplements cause prostate cancer.
Calcium.
A high total calcium intake, whether through supplements or food, may increase the risk of prostate cancer, including the more aggressive variety.
Zinc.
According to a study, men who took more than 100 mg of supplementary zinc per day for several years were more likely than men who did not take the supplement to be diagnosed with prostate cancer. Again, though, this does not show cause and effect.
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. High dosages of vitamin E (400 international units, or IU) should be avoided unless your doctor expressly prescribes them. This suggestion is based on the results of a randomized controlled trial that looked at whether vitamin E, selenium, or both might lower the incidence of prostate cancer. Men who used vitamin E had a greater risk of prostate cancer, especially aggressive cancer, according to the findings.
Selenium.
The use of selenium supplements was linked to a small increase in cancer risk in the vitamin E and selenium study, although this was not statistically significant.
Lycopene.
Lycopene. Men who ate more lycopene-rich foods, such as tomatoes and tomato-based products, had reduced rates of prostate cancer and prostate cancer deaths, according to major observational research. Other research, however, other studies did not confirm these findings, and studies of lycopene supplements have shown no effect.
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. Low vitamin D blood levels have been related to a variety of malignancies, including prostate cancer, therefore men should aim for at least 800 IU of vitamin D each day.
What does it all mean in the end? There is no solid evidence to support the use of vitamin or mineral supplements to prevent prostate cancer at this time. However, it is ideal if you continue to focus on obtaining these nutrients through a balanced diet. Men who consume large amounts of fruits and vegetables and limited red meat and high-fat dairy products may have a decreased prostate cancer risk. Additionally, keeping a healthy weight and exercising regularly appears to lower the chance of acquiring more aggressive and possibly deadly types of prostate cancer.
