On this episode of Longevity by Design, Dr. Gil Blander welcomes Dr. John Erdman to discuss prostate cancer and the impact of diet on disease progression. John shares his personal connection to this disease and why he’s dedicated his research to understanding dietary interventions.

John explains that prostate cancer is often slow-growing, with most men experiencing decades between early mutations and noticeable tumor growth. He stresses the importance of early detection through regular checkups, including digital exams and PSA tests. While the medical community debates the effectiveness of these tests, John advocates for establishing a baseline to monitor for any sudden changes.

John's research reveals a strong link between tomato consumption and reduced prostate cancer risk. He believes this protective effect stems from lycopene and its metabolites, which may influence gene expression. John emphasizes that while tomato consumption shows promise, maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise are equally crucial for long-term health.

Episode highlights:

• Introduction: 00:00:00
• The Stages and Progression of Prostate Cancer: 00:06:00
• Diagnosing Prostate Cancer: Methods and Considerations: 00:11:00
• The Role of Specific Foods in Prostate Cancer Risk Reduction: 00:22:00
• Exploring the Link Between Gut Microbes and Prostate Cancer: 00:30:00
• Top tip to improve healthspan: 00:34:00

For science-backed ways to live a healthier longer life, download InsideTracker's Top 5 biomarkers for longevity eBook at insidetracker.com/podcast