Conventional physicians are not always known for their open-mindedness about natural therapies, such as nutritional and herbal supplements. However, in light of good scientific research, they cannot keep their eyes closed to the benefits.
Results of a new research study were presented at the 2013 annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology that showed a new supplement led to significant lowering of prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels in prostate cancer patients. This was a randomized placebo-controlled trial, which is considered the highest level of scientific evidence available in the medical world. The supplement, called Pomi-T, is a combination of well-known cancer fighting botanicals, including turmeric, green tea, broccoli, and pomegranate.
This study examined 203 men who had been treated for prostate cancer, but had a relapse of elevated PSA. Half of the subjects were randomized to receive Pomi-T, and half received a placebo. After six months, the botanicals group had a 63.8% lower increase in PSA versus the placebo group. They were also three times as likely to have stable or even lower than baseline PSA levels versus the placebo group. Furthermore, there were no significant side effects from the supplement.
The medical community, which historically has been skeptical, if not downright antagonistic, towards nutritional supplements, heralded this research for two important reasons. Firstly, the design and quality of the supplement was closely monitored. This is important, since many off-the-shelf supplements are questionable in terms of their quality and purity. Secondly, this study was well designed, and had enough subjects to draw good statistical conclusions. Many times, when you read about “clinical research” on a supplement manufacturer’s website, this is based on a handful of subjects, with no placebo control.
Remember, too, that any supplement is an addition to a healthy lifestyle: good diet and regular exercise. But if you are dealing with prostate cancer, this supplement looks like a good fit. If you can’t find it, you can find supplemental forms of each of the components; just be sure to get standardized products from reputable manufacturers. When it comes to cancer, don’t bet your life on the cheap stuff off the shelf at Wal-Mart.
2013 Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Abstract 5008. Presented June 3, 2013.