Using a Plant-Based, High-Fiber Diet to Potentially Delay Myeloma Progression

Recent clinical research suggests that adopting a high-fiber, plant-based diet may offer benefits for individuals at risk of developing multiple myeloma, a common type of blood cancer. The study revealed that such a diet is practical and well-accepted among participants, and it also positively influenced various health markers associated with the early, non-cancerous conditions that often precede multiple myeloma. These precursor conditions involve abnormal plasma cells, with risk factors including high body weight, poor dietary choices, and gut microbiome imbalance.

The importance of diet and lifestyle in influencing cancer progression is increasingly recognized, especially as early detection of precancerous states becomes more common. Dietary improvements, particularly increased dietary quality, could serve as a vital strategy in delaying or preventing the transition to full-blown myeloma, according to experts like Francesca Castro from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

The pilot study, part of the NUTRIVENTION Trials, involved 20 patients at elevated risk due to precursor conditions and obesity. Over 12 weeks, participants consumed high-fiber, whole plant foods—including fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains, and legumes—while avoiding refined grains, animal products, added sugars, and heavily processed foods. The results were promising: adherence was high, participants experienced weight loss (a median BMI reduction of 7%), and some showed slowed disease progression. These improvements persisted through a year-long follow-up.

Additionally, the study found improvements in overall dietary quality, metabolic health markers like insulin resistance, lipid profiles, inflammation levels, and gut microbiome diversity. These health benefits were observed not only during the dietary intervention but also sustained afterward.

Experts highlight that this type of diet not only impacts cancer risk but also offers protection against cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. Despite many Americans falling short of the recommended 28 grams of fiber daily, simple changes such as adding fruits or swapping refined grains for whole grains can significantly improve fiber intake.

The research team plans to expand the study to larger groups and investigate how diet compares to supplements in affecting gut health. Future studies will also explore the diet’s effects on other precancerous blood conditions like clonal hematopoiesis, which raises the risk of leukemia.

This research underscores the potential for diet modification as a proactive approach in cancer prevention and overall health enhancement.