PROSTATE PROS Episode 16: Supplements to Treat Prostate Cancer

Listen: https://soundcloud.com/prostate-oncology/supplements-to-treat-prostate-cancer

“I see these supplements and diet and exercise as ancillary to all the other available treatments.  Not to say that standard treatments can’t be overused and incur unnecessary toxicity, everything has to be done skillfully, but I think it’s the either/or thinking that some people adopt that can really hurt them.” – Dr. Scholz  

Taking supplements for prostate cancer is appealing to many men. But are vitamins and minerals really beneficial? 

When looking into supplements first remember that there are no magic bullets.  While supplements may have milder side effects, they also tend to be less effective against managing prostate cancer.  So how do you decide which to take?  Supplements, if they’re effective, should show an effect in randomized, placebo controlled trials.  Knowing and understanding the results of clinical trials is a great way to decide if a vitamin or supplement is something you want to add to your treatment plan.  Be wary of marketing practices and miraculous healing claims. Instead, base your decisions on scientific results and conversations with your doctors. 

Another thing to keep in mind: Things that are good for healthy cells can also feed cancer cells.  Be selective in which supplements, minerals, vitamins, or natural healing options you pursue.  Keep a close eye on your PSA to help gage the efficacy of the supplements.  

Listen to the episode to learn more about the following: 

  1. Vitamin C infusions
  2. Aspirin 
  3. Metformin
  4. Statins
  5. Pomegranate
  6. Red Yeast Rice
  7. Calcium
  8. Vitamin D 
  9. Vitamin E
  10. Multivitamins
  11. PC-SPES

Dr. Mark Moyad’s Book: The Supplement Handbook: A Trusted Expert’s Guide to What Works and What’s Worthless for More Than 100 Conditions

Effect of Aspirin on All-Cause Mortality in the Healthy Elderly (NEJM): https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmoa180395

Visit the podcast website for full transcript: podcast.prostateoncology.com 

Have questions or topics you think would be great for PROSTATE PROS? Email

podcast@prostateoncology.com

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The purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform.  The information presented on this podcast and corresponding blog posted on prostateoncology.com/blog should not be used in place of a physician consult. Guests on the podcasts present their own opinions and conclusions, these views do not necessarily represent that of Prostate Oncology Specialists.

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