Plant-Based Diets Improve Cancer Prognosis

| 7 November 2022
minute reading time

The latest evidence revealed

A review of 30 studies found that higher intakes of plant-based foods are linked to an improved prognosis for cancer survivors. A high intake of wholegrains and fibre improved outcomes in those with colorectal (bowel) cancer while a higher intake of fruit, veg and fibre, and a moderate intake of soya, benefitted those with breast cancer.

For prostate cancer, a higher vegetable fat intake was linked to improved prognosis while a high nut intake was consistently related to better outcomes for all three types of cancer.

Taken together, evidence shows how healthy and unprocessed plant-based foods, including wholegrains, nuts, fruit and vegetables, may benefit cancer prognosis.

Hardt L, Mahamat-Saleh Y, Aune D et al. 2022. Plant-based diets and cancer prognosis: a review of recent research. Current Nutrition Reports. Epub ahead of print.

About the author
Dr. Justine Butler
Justine joined Viva! in 2005 after graduating from Bristol University with a PhD in molecular biology. After working as a campaigner, then researcher and writer, she is now Viva!’s head of research and her work focuses on animals, the environment and health. Justine’s scientific training helps her research and write both in-depth scientific reports, such as White Lies and the Meat Report, as well as easy-to-read factsheets and myth-busting articles for consumer magazines and updates on the latest research. Justine also recently wrote the Vegan for the Planet guide for Viva!’s Vegan Now campaign.

View author page | View staff profile

Scroll up