(NaturalHealth365)  Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men, and while many survive the disease itself, heart disease remains the leading non-cancer cause of death in this group.  A new study shows that what men do after diagnosis – maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and limiting alcohol – can be just as important as medical treatment.

The study published in JAMA Network Open highlights how lifestyle choices after a prostate cancer diagnosis can significantly impact survival.  Researchers found that men who simply followed conventional wisdom, like the American Cancer Society (ACS) Nutrition and Physical Activity Guideline for Cancer Survivors, had a 23% lower risk of death from any cause and a 25% lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared to those who did not.

How researchers tracked thousands of men for nearly three decades

The study followed 4,232 men with nonmetastatic prostate cancer (meaning it had not spread beyond the prostate) from the American Cancer Society’s long-running Cancer Prevention Study-II Nutrition Cohort.  Participants were tracked for up to 28 years after diagnosis.

Each man received a score based on how closely his lifestyle matched the ACS guideline (ranging from 0 to 8 points):

• Body weight (healthy BMI)

• Physical activity (regular movement, ideally >150 minutes/week)

• Diet quality (more plant-based foods, less processed/red meat, higher nutrient density)

• Alcohol intake (limited or none)

Higher scores meant closer alignment with the guideline.

The numbers don’t lie: Healthy habits add years to life

Men with high scores (6–8) had:

• 23% lower risk of all-cause mortality

• 25% lower risk of cardiovascular mortality

Men who improved their lifestyle after diagnosis, moving from low to moderate/high scores, also saw significant survival benefits.

The impact was consistent regardless of whether tumors were aggressive or non-aggressive.

While prostate cancer–specific mortality was lower in men with healthier lifestyles, the association was not statistically significant.

How natural lifestyle shifts can be more powerful than Western medicine

This study confirms what holistic practitioners have been saying for decades: your daily habits can shape your long-term health without toxic side effects.  Beyond the ACS guidelines, here are natural approaches survivors can use to build resilience and protect both heart and prostate health:

• An anti-inflammatory diet: Cruciferous vegetables (such as organic broccoli, kale, and Brussels sprouts), berries, turmeric, and green tea can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.

• Targeted movement: Tai chi and strength training boost resilience and reduce stress hormones linked to cancer progression.

• Mind-body practices: Meditation and breathwork reduce excess cortisol, improve sleep, and strengthen immune function.

• Detox support: Reduce exposure to toxins (such as processed meats, pesticides, and plastics) and support detoxification with a balanced diet rich in fiber, hydration, and liver-friendly foods like beets and dandelion greens.

Even small, consistent changes in these areas can reinforce the survival benefits observed in the study.

What this means for the bigger picture of cancer and chronic disease

Lifestyle changes don’t just improve survival after prostate cancer – they help protect against all major chronic diseases, from heart disease to diabetes to other cancers.  But knowing where to start can feel overwhelming.

That’s where Jonathan Landsman’s Stop Cancer Docu-Class comes in.

This unique digital program brings together 22 of the very best scientists, researchers, doctors, and nutrition experts to share evidence-based, natural solutions for preventing and fighting cancer.  You’ll discover:

• How to lower inflammation and oxidative stress naturally

• Which foods truly protect against cancer recurrence

• Safe detox methods to support long-term health

• Actionable steps you can apply immediately to protect yourself and your loved ones

Imagine having all of these strategies right at your fingertips, ready to guide you toward lasting health and recovery.  Get access to the Stop Cancer Docu-Class today.

Sources for this article include:

Wiley.com
Jamanetwork.com
Medicalxpress.com