Some evidence suggests that flaxseed can have a positive impact on prostate cancer. However, there is limited research on the topic. A person should speak with a doctor about how diet can impact cancer.
Prostate cancer is the
There has not been much recent research on flaxseed and prostate cancer, and many of its benefits do not currently have confirmation.
This article details what the research says about flaxseed and prostate cancer. It also discusses how to safely incorporate flaxseed into the diet before listing other foods that may benefit people with prostate cancer.
Doctors and researchers have developed many treatments for prostate cancer, ranging from surgery to hormone therapy. However, there is also scientific interest in dietary approaches to prostate cancer management.
According to a
In particular, the review states that both animal and human trials indicate that flaxseed consumption may reduce breast tumor size and can increase breast cancer survival rate.
There has been less research on flaxseed for prostate cancer. However, this review indicates that flaxseed may limit the growth of cancers, including prostate cancer.
Scientists do not know why flaxseed may have these anticancer properties. According to a 2020 article, one theory centers around certain chemicals known as lignans. Flaxseed contains lignans, and these chemicals have a similar structure to estrogen.
Some researchers suspect that when the body breaks down lignans, it releases chemicals that inhibit cancer growth. However, more research is necessary to confirm this theory.
As the 2020 review clarifies, there has not been much recent research on flaxseed and prostate cancer. However, some results are beginning to emerge from the research so far.
These results include the finding that dietary flaxseed alongside a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce levels of prostate-specific antigen, indicating a lower chance of having prostate cancer.
Also, dietary flaxseed alongside a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce the likelihood of prostate cancer tumors spreading to other body parts.
However, it is worth noting that more research is necessary on this topic before doctors can be sure about these effects.
Nonetheless, there is good evidence to suggest that following a healthy, nutritious diet can
According to the
However, the 2020 review notes that people may wish to use caution if they take flaxseed oil. This is because it contains a type of fat — alpha-linolenic acid — that may make prostate cancer tumors more aggressive.
A person may benefit from incorporating flaxseed into their diet alongside a variety of fruits and vegetables.
There are many ways to incorporate flaxseed into an individual’s diet. These include:
- adding flaxseed powder to smoothies or juices
- adding ground flaxseed to salads
- using flaxseed oil for salad dressings
- adding ground flaxseed to cereal or oatmeal
- making baked goods that contain flaxseed powder or ground flaxseed
- incorporating flaxseed into savory dishes, such as soups, stews, or patties
Mixing flaxseed powder and water can also create a vegan egg substitute.
Scientists are finding evidence that some foods may be good for people with prostate cancer. According to another
- fish
- vegetable oil
- dairy products
- tomatoes
- mushrooms
- legumes
- green tea
However, the same review also notes that this research remains controversial in the cancer science community. Scientists will need to investigate this matter further.
Learn more about 7 cancer-fighting foods.
The following are frequently asked questions about flaxseed, tumors, and prostate cancer.
Does flaxseed shrink tumors?
There is some evidence that flaxseed may limit the growth of tumors.
Although most research on this topic covers the effects of flaxseed on breast cancer tumors, flaxseed may have a similar impact on prostate cancer tumors.
However, there is no evidence that flaxseed can shrink tumors.
What seeds are good for prostate cancer?
Research suggests that vitamin E can help to inhibit cancer growth. A person can find high levels of vitamin E in sunflower seed oil and cottonseed oil.
There is not much research on flaxseed’s impact on prostate cancer. However, some research suggests that flaxseed may have anticancer properties, and may inhibit the development of prostate cancer.
Although there is limited research surrounding flaxseed and prostate cancer, a person can consume flaxseed as a part of a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet can be beneficial when a person is undergoing treatment for cancer.