In a five-year study published in The Journal of Urology of 2,000 older Spanish men, those following a Mediterranean diet rich in fish, boiled potatoes, whole fruits, vegetables, legumes and olive oil that was low in juices had a significantly lower risk of aggressive prostate cancer compared to those eating a Western diet. This protective effect was not found in diets higher in fatty foods, red and processed meat, refined grains and sweets. The researchers also reviewed other science to date, confirming the protective effect of the Mediterranean diet as well as “healthy” and “prudent” diets, all consisting of greater portions of fruits and vegetables.

This article appears in the August 2018 issue of Natural Awakenings.