# Nutrition and diets in metastatic prostate cancer
Nutrition plays a role in how you feel and how well your body can cope with the disease and treatment. Research shows that certain dietary patterns can influence disease progression and side effects. Below we describe which diets and nutritional approaches are being studied in metastatic prostate cancer, and what is known about them.
Anti-inflammatory eating pattern
ResearchediPositive results in clinical studies, not yet standard treatment
An anti-inflammatory dietary pattern focuses on foods that can help reduce inflammatory responses in the body: plenty of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, fish, nuts and olives. It limits red meat, refined sugars and ultra-processed products.
Research from 2026 in men with urological cancers showed that an anti-inflammatory dietary pattern *before* diagnosis was associated with better survival after diagnosis. This suggests that long-term dietary choices can have an effect, although the research does not show that *changing* diet after diagnosis automatically has the same effect. In men with metastatic prostate cancer sensitive to hormone therapy, it was also known that nutritional status and inflammatory markers in the blood were related to disease progression.
The pattern is considered supportive by treatment teams in various countries, mainly because it is usually well tolerated alongside treatment.
Nutrition and body composition (protein intake)
ResearchediPositive results in clinical studies, not yet standard treatment
This is not a fixed 'diet', but rather attention to adequate protein to maintain muscle mass. Metastatic prostate cancer and hormone treatments can lead to muscle loss and fatigue. Research in 2026 showed that certain substances in the blood associated with muscle loss were also predictive of disease progression.
A diet with adequate protein (from fish, poultry, dairy, legumes, nuts) can help keep muscles stronger. In combination with physical activity, this effect appeared to be strengthened, according to a 2026 study on weight loss and nutrition in prostate cancer treatment.
This requires individualization: what works well for one man does not necessarily work for another, especially depending on kidney function and other disease progression.
Mediterranean dietary pattern
ResearchediPositive results in clinical studies, not yet standard treatment
The Mediterranean pattern is similar to the anti-inflammatory pattern and focuses on olive oil, fish, vegetables, fruit, nuts, grains and moderate dairy. It limits meat and trans fats.
Although not specifically studied in metastatic prostate cancer, general research shows that this dietary pattern improves cardiovascular health. This is relevant because men with prostate cancer undergoing hormone therapy have an increased risk of heart disease. Guidelines for cardiovascular risk reduction in prostate cancer (2026) recognize nutrition as part of risk reduction.
Low glycemic index nutrition
ResearchediPositive results in clinical studies, not yet standard treatment
This pattern focuses on slowly absorbed carbohydrates (whole grain products, vegetables, certain fruits) and avoids rapid blood sugar spikes (white bread, sugary drinks, sweets).
This can contribute to better blood sugar levels and weight management, which is particularly important because prostate cancer treatment can lead to weight gain and worsened metabolic profile. Direct studies specifically for metastatic prostate cancer are lacking, but general prevention of overweight and metabolic disorders is recognized in treatment guidelines as supportive.
Supplements and plant-based products
ExperimentaliOngoing in study setting, outcome still unknown
There is much information circulating about herbs, extracts and supplements (such as certain plant compounds) that would help against cancer. Recent reviews show research into substances with potential antioxidant activity, but for prostate cancer clear, repeated clinical evidence in large groups of patients is lacking.
Most of this research happens in laboratories or on a small scale. Risks can include: interaction with medications (especially hormone suppressors), impure preparations or overdosing. A conversation with your care team is essential before you start using supplements.
Restrictive diets (fasting, ketogenic)
UnproveniNo scientific evidence that it works
Strict dietary restrictions such as intermittent fasting or ketogenic diet (very low in carbohydrates) are sometimes promoted online for cancer treatment. For metastatic prostate cancer, there is no scientific evidence for this in large studies.
Risk: if your body is already weakened by illness and treatment, strict fasting can lead to muscle loss, fatigue and deterioration of nutritional status. This can make treatment more difficult and worsen side effects. Combination with some medicines can also be risky.
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**Dietary choices with metastatic prostate cancer are tailored.** They should always be discussed with your medical team or a dietitian with experience in cancer care. What you tolerate well, how well you can eat and what your body needs depends on your general health, the phase of treatment, possible side effects and your personal preference. A dietitian can help you arrange your diet so that you feel stronger and get through treatment better.
_This information never replaces a doctor's judgment. Always discuss your situation with your own healthcare provider._