New research has suggested that high vegetable intake may be related to a lower risk of prostate cancer in men.

The conclusion comes from a review of studies on prostate cancer and vegetable consumption, including 29 cohort studies, 69 case-control studies, and 4 randomized clinical trials.

It is believed that the protective mechanism relies on the fact that vegetables are rich in antioxidants which protect cells against DNA damage.

Some of the nutritional elements which have shown anti-cancer properties are tomatoes and their byproducts containing the carotenoid antioxidant lycopene as well as legumes, including soy and soy products.

Flavonoids, which are present in citrus fruits, berries, ginkgo biloba, onions and tea also have anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties.

Scientists theorize they may suppress angiogenesis which is key to tumor development.

The review was conducted by Ruth Chan and collaborators for the online edition of Molecular Nutrition and Food Research.

Consumers who are concerned that their daily diets do not offer sufficient antioxidant intake may turn to nutritional supplements to make up for the deficit.