Whole grain rye and rye bran decrease inflammatory markers in men with prostate cancer
In a recent study published in Clinical Nutrition, Swedish researchers found promising results regarding rye intake and improvements in inflammatory status in men with prostate cancer. The study was performed in 17 men with untreated, low-grade prostate cancer during six weeks, and effects of rye consumption versus refined wheat on low-grade inflammation and endothelial function biomarkers were evaluated.
Rye products mounting to 485 gram whole grain rye and rye bran were consumed each day and compared with similar amounts of refined wheat products in a randomized crossover setting. The control diet consisted of refined wheat products with added cellulose. Fasting blood samples were taken before and after two, four, and six weeks of treatment.
The rye diet was found to lower several biomarkers of inflammation (TNF-R2) endothelial function (e-selectin) and prognosis (endostatin), when compared with the wheat based diet. These effects were accompanied by a reduction in prostate-specific antigen (PSA).