Prostate Specific Antigen

Why It Matters

Prostate-specific antigen, or PSA, testing is a commonly used tool for the early detection of prostate cancer. PSA is a protein produced by normal and malignant cells of the prostate gland. PSA levels naturally increase with age. (source, source)

Low Prostate Specific Antigen: Favorable Prostate Health

Generally, low prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels are considered a sign of good health. They are influenced by physiological factors related to prostate health and function. (source)

Potential Performance Impact:

• No adverse symptoms; low PSA is a favorable finding

Optimization

Low PSA levels usually do not require any specific treatment unless associated with a specific illness. There is no suggested nutritional, lifestyle, or supplement-based intervention.

High Prostate Specific Antigen: Prostate Inflammation Risk

Elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels are influenced by physiological factors such as prostate health and inflammation within the prostate gland. Certain dietary deficiencies, such as vitamin D, contribute to higher PSA levels. (source, source)

Potential Performance Impact:

• Increased need for prostate health monitoring
• Potential prostate inflammation

Optimization

Prioritize foods high in vitamin D: Low vitamin D levels are associated with high PSA levels. Vitamin D contains anti-inflammatory properties that aid in the inhibition of growth and development of prostate cancer cells, decreasing PSA levels. (source, source)

Protocol: Consume at least one serving of foods high in vitamin D daily. One serving examples: Rainbow Trout (3 oz), Salmon (3 oz), Maitake Mushrooms (sliced) (1 cup), Fortified Milk (8 fl oz).

Prioritize cranberries: Cranberry powder consumption decreases PSA levels. Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins that inhibit prostate cell growth. (source, source)

Protocol: Consume at least one half-cup serving of cranberries daily.

Prioritize sleep: Disruptions to the circadian rhythm are associated with reduced levels of melatonin, a hormone that suppresses the growth of prostate cancer cells. (source, source)

Protocol: Strive to get 8 to 10 hours of sleep for optimal recovery and adaptation.

Supplement with vitamin D: Low vitamin D levels are associated with high PSA levels. Vitamin D's anti-inflammatory properties aid in decreasing PSA levels. (source, source)

Protocol: Supplement with at least 2,000 IU of vitamin D daily during the spring, summer, and fall months. Increase supplementation to at least 4,000 IU during the winter months.