Research Indicates High-Fiber Diet May Slow Blood Cancer Progression

Recent research conducted by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center has unveiled promising findings regarding the impact of a high-fiber, plant-based diet on the progression of multiple myeloma, a serious blood cancer. This study marks the first clinical trial aimed at assessing the effects of such dietary interventions on individuals at risk of developing this condition.

The trial involved 20 participants who presented with a precancerous blood disorder and had an elevated body mass index (BMI). Over a span of 12 weeks, these individuals were provided with meals rich in dietary fiber sourced from whole plant foods, accompanied by 24 weeks of personalized coaching. Remarkably, two participants who had previously experienced disease progression demonstrated significant improvements during this period. Furthermore, one year post-enrollment, none of the participants transitioned to multiple myeloma.

According to the study leader, the results underscore the potential of nutritional interventions in enhancing patient outcomes, particularly among those with precancerous conditions. The research indicates that a high-fiber diet not only contributes to better metabolic health but also fosters a healthier gut microbiome, which can bolster the immune system.

Multiple myeloma is recognized as the second most prevalent blood cancer, often emerging from precursor conditions such as monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and smoldering myeloma. Recent evidence suggests that individuals with poor dietary habits and low consumption of plant-based foods are at an increased risk for developing this cancer. Additionally, individuals categorized with elevated BMI are twice as likely to progress to multiple myeloma compared to their normal BMI counterparts.

Throughout the study, participants were encouraged to consume unlimited amounts of whole plant-based foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes. The dietary shift resulted in substantial improvements in various health markers, including quality of life, insulin sensitivity, gut microbiome health, and inflammation levels. On average, participants experienced an eight percent reduction in body weight after the initial 12 weeks.

The encouraging outcomes of this trial have led to plans for a larger-scale investigation, designated as NUTRIVENTION-3, which aims to enroll 150 participants. This subsequent study will further explore the implications of high-fiber dietary interventions on disease progression among individuals at risk.

In addition to human trials, the findings were corroborated by a mouse model of smoldering myeloma, where 44% of the mice subjected to a high-fiber diet did not progress to myeloma, contrasting sharply with a control group where all subjects advanced to the disease.

These findings suggest a potentially significant role for dietary modifications in the prevention of blood cancers, highlighting the need for further research in this promising area of oncology.