What is the best thing to drink when you have prostate cancer?

December 13, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the National Cancer Institute, green tea and pomegranate are among the dietary supplements commonly consumed by prostate cancer patients. This guide examines what is the best thing to drink when you have prostate cancer, focusing on beverages with research-backed benefits while also highlighting which drinks to limit or avoid during treatment and recovery.

Quick Summary

This article explores the most beneficial beverages for prostate cancer patients, focusing on options rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, such as green tea and specific juices, while advising against high-sugar, caffeinated, and alcoholic drinks.

Key Points

Hydration is Vital: Drink plenty of water to help kidneys function, flush toxins, and prevent constipation, a common side effect of treatment.
Green Tea is a Top Choice: Rich in catechins with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties that may slow cancer cell growth and reduce inflammation.
Pomegranate Shows Promise: Juice or extract can increase PSA doubling time and inhibit cancer cell growth, but results vary, so choose 100% pure juice.
Minimize Inflammatory Drinks: High-fat dairy, alcohol, and sugary drinks should be limited or avoided to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.
Watch Caffeine and Irritants: Reduce intake of caffeinated and carbonated beverages, as they can irritate the bladder and worsen urinary symptoms.
Consult a Professional: Always discuss significant dietary changes with your doctor or a registered dietitian, especially when undergoing cancer treatment.

Why Hydration Matters During Cancer Treatment

Staying adequately hydrated is a cornerstone of overall health, and its importance is amplified for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. Prostate cancer and its therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiation, can cause side effects like fever, nausea, or diarrhea, leading to fluid loss and dehydration. Proper hydration helps the kidneys flush waste and toxins, aids in medication effectiveness, and can alleviate other symptoms like constipation. For men with prostate issues like Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), maintaining proper hydration also supports urinary function and prevents complications like urinary tract infections. A simple but effective rule is to consume plenty of water throughout the day, avoiding large quantities right before bed if frequent nighttime urination is an issue.

Beneficial Beverages for Prostate Health

Several drinks are noted for their potential prostate-protective properties, primarily due to high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Incorporating these into a daily routine can support a healthy diet.

Green Tea and Its Powerful Catechins

Green tea, particularly rich in antioxidants called catechins (like epigallocatechin gallate or EGCG), is a strong contender for the best beverage for prostate health. Research shows that EGCG has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties that can help inhibit cancer cell growth and reduce inflammation. Some studies suggest that regular green tea consumption may lower the risk of advanced prostate cancer, especially when consumed in higher quantities (e.g., ≥5 cups/day). For those sensitive to caffeine, decaffeinated green tea is a suitable alternative.

Pomegranate Juice

Pomegranate juice is another antioxidant powerhouse, containing compounds like ellagitannins and anthocyanins. Preclinical and some clinical studies have demonstrated that pomegranate extract can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells and prolong PSA doubling time in patients with biochemically recurrent prostate cancer. While larger, placebo-controlled trials have shown mixed results for the general population, there is some indication it may benefit a subset of patients with specific genetic factors. When choosing pomegranate juice, opt for 100% pure juice with no added sugars.

Tomato Juice

Tomatoes contain lycopene, a potent antioxidant that may improve prostate health. Interestingly, cooked tomatoes and tomato juice provide higher levels of absorbable lycopene than raw tomatoes. Including a glass of low-sodium tomato juice in your diet is a good way to increase your lycopene intake. Studies have suggested a link between higher lycopene consumption and a reduced risk of prostate cancer.

Plant-Based Milks and Blends

Replacing high-fat dairy with plant-based alternatives can be a beneficial dietary modification. Options like soy milk, almond milk, and oat milk are good choices. Some research suggests that soy contains isoflavones that may help suppress hormone-triggered cancer growth. When buying, check labels to ensure minimal added sugars.

Other Herbal Teas

Hibiscus Tea: High in antioxidants, test-tube studies suggest it may help slow the growth of prostate cancer cells, though human research is lacking.
Stinging Nettle Root Tea: Limited animal studies suggest potential benefits for prostate disorders, but it can interact with certain medications and should be discussed with a doctor.

Beverages to Limit or Avoid

For men with prostate cancer, certain drinks can worsen symptoms or promote inflammation. Reducing or eliminating these beverages is often recommended.

Caffeinated Drinks

Caffeine is a diuretic and a bladder irritant, which can worsen urinary frequency and urgency, common symptoms associated with prostate issues. This includes coffee, black tea, energy drinks, and some sodas. Switching to decaf versions or herbal teas is a good strategy.

Alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of prostate health issues and can irritate the bladder. Alcohol can also interfere with hormone and other cancer therapies. While some research on red wine's polyphenols is mixed, the risks associated with alcohol generally outweigh the potential benefits.

Sugary and Carbonated Drinks

Sugary beverages like soda, sweetened fruit juices, and energy drinks contribute to inflammation and can lead to weight gain, both of which are linked to poorer cancer outcomes. Carbonated drinks can also irritate the bladder.

High-Fat Dairy

High-fat dairy products have been associated with increased inflammation and a potential rise in prostate cancer risk, especially more aggressive forms. Substituting with low-fat or plant-based alternatives is often recommended.

Comparison of Drinks for Prostate Cancer


Feature	Best Options	Limited/Avoid	Notes
Hydration	Water, Herbal Teas, Decaf Tea	Caffeine, Alcohol	Water is the undisputed best choice for hydration.
Antioxidants	Green Tea, Pomegranate Juice, Tomato Juice	Sugary Sodas, Processed Juices	These offer protection against cell damage.
Anti-Inflammatory	Green Tea, Pomegranate Juice, Hibiscus Tea	High-Fat Dairy, Fried Foods	Key for managing prostate inflammation.
Hormone Modulation	Soy Milk	High-Fat Dairy, Excessive Alcohol	Some evidence for soy in hormone-sensitive cancers.
Nutrient Density	Green Tea, Juices (100% pure)	Empty Calories (Sugary Drinks)	Whole foods/minimal processing are best.
Bladder Irritation	Water, Decaf Tea	Caffeine, Alcohol, Carbonated Drinks, Citrus Juices	Critical for managing urinary symptoms.

How to Incorporate Healthy Drinks into Your Routine

Making dietary changes can be challenging, but small, consistent steps are most effective. Instead of a morning coffee, try a cup of decaffeinated green tea. Swap sugary soft drinks for sparkling water infused with fresh fruits like berries or cucumber. For an antioxidant boost, mix pomegranate juice into a smoothie. Always check with your healthcare team or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have other medical conditions or are on medication that could interact with supplements.

Conclusion

While no single drink can cure or prevent prostate cancer, strategic beverage choices can significantly support overall health during treatment and recovery. Prioritizing hydration with water is fundamental, supplemented by nutrient-rich drinks like green tea, pomegranate juice, and low-sodium tomato juice. Equally important is limiting or avoiding beverages known to exacerbate symptoms or promote inflammation, such as caffeinated drinks, alcohol, and high-sugar sodas. A mindful approach to what you drink, alongside a balanced diet, contributes positively to managing your health. For additional resources on diet and cancer, consider visiting the National Cancer Institute's website.

National Cancer Institute - Prostate Cancer, Nutrition, and Dietary Supplements

Frequently Asked Questions

No, drinking plenty of water is crucial for prostate health and overall well-being. Adequate water intake helps flush the bladder and kidneys and supports urinary function. If frequent urination is a concern, reduce fluid intake before bed but maintain hydration throughout the day.

While decaffeinated coffee is generally fine, high-caffeine beverages can irritate the bladder and worsen urinary symptoms common with prostate issues. Many healthcare providers suggest limiting or avoiding caffeinated coffee, black tea, and energy drinks.

Excessive alcohol consumption can irritate the bladder and is associated with an increased risk of prostate problems. Alcohol can also interfere with cancer treatments. It is best to limit or avoid alcohol, especially during treatment.

Pomegranate juice (100% pure) and low-sodium tomato juice are often recommended for their high antioxidant content. Pomegranate may slow PSA progression, and tomato juice provides lycopene. However, sugary juices should be limited.

Many experts suggest limiting high-fat dairy, as it may be linked to increased prostate cancer risk and inflammation. Plant-based alternatives like soy, almond, and oat milk are good options, provided they are low in added sugars.

While some studies have used green tea extracts and supplements with promising results, they are highly concentrated and can have different effects than traditionally brewed tea. Always consult a doctor before taking any supplements, as quality and dosage can vary.

Drink small amounts of fluid frequently throughout the day, not just when you feel thirsty. Keep a water bottle with you and use reminders if needed. Eating hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, and soups also helps.

Yes, it is best to limit or avoid drinks with added sugar, such as sodas and sweetened juices. High sugar intake can increase inflammation and is associated with poorer health outcomes.