A recent study conducted by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) suggests that adopting a high-fiber, plant-based diet may delay the progression of multiple myeloma, a rare and currently incurable blood cancer. The research, presented at the 2024 American Society of Hematology annual meeting, involved 20 participants with precancerous blood disorders and elevated body mass indices (BMIs). Over a 12-week period, these individuals adhered to a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, accompanied by 24 weeks of dietary coaching. Remarkably, none of the participants progressed to multiple myeloma within a year of initiating the program, and two individuals exhibiting early signs of disease progression prior to the study experienced significant improvements.
The study’s lead researcher, Dr. Urvi Shah, emphasized the profound impact of nutrition on health and cancer prevention, stating that focusing on high-fiber, plant-based foods can enhance gut health, metabolism, and immune function, all of which contribute to reducing cancer risk. Participants also reported improved quality of life, decreased inflammation, and better gut health, with an average weight loss of 8% during the 12-week dietary intervention. These findings align with previous research indicating that poor diet and higher BMI are associated with an increased risk of developing multiple myeloma. Encouraged by these results, the MSK team is initiating a larger trial, NUTRIVENTION-3, involving 150 participants across multiple centers to further investigate the potential of plant-based diets in preventing cancer progression. Click for More Details
