Plant-based diet linked with improved sexual health of men with prostate cancer in new study

Researchers sorted patients into quintiles or five groups based on the proportion of plant versus animal foods they said they ate. The quintile that consumed the most plant-based food scored between eight to 11 per cent better in measures of sexual function compared to the group that consumed it the least.

Similarly, it also found up to 14 per cent better scores for urinary health, with fewer instances of incontinence, obstruction and irritation. Hormonal health scores — assessing symptoms like low energy, depression and hot flashes — were also up to 13 per cent higher for the quintile with the highest proportion of plant-based foods in their diet compared to the lowest.

“Our findings offer hope for those looking for ways to improve their quality of life after undergoing surgery, radiation, and other common therapies for prostate cancer, which can cause significant side effects. Adding more fruits and vegetables to their diet, while reducing meat and dairy, is a simple step that patients can take,” said study lead author and urologist Stacy Loeb in a press statement.