New research suggests that the Mediterranean diet improves immunotherapy response rates and progression-free survival in advanced melanoma

A new study published in UEG Week 2022 found that eating a Mediterranean diet rich in fiber, monounsaturated fatty acids and polyphenols was associated with improved immunotherapy response rates and progression-free survival in patients with advanced melanoma

Experts expect this diet to play a big role in the success of immunotherapy, and trials are expanding to investigate the results of different types of tumors, including cancers
of the digestive system.

The Mediterranean diet contains single and polyunsaturated fats from olive oil, nuts and fish, polyphenols and fiber from vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, which are significantly associated
with improved response to immunotherapy drugs known as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).
ICIs have been so successful in treating melanoma that they work by blocking immune system checkpoints and then forcing the body's own T cells to attack the cancer

Researchers from the UK and the Netherlands conducted a new multicenter study documenting dietary intake from 91 patients with advanced melanoma who were treated with ICI medications and monitored their progress
through regular radioactive checks.

The Mediterranean diet was significantly associated not only with total efficacy, but also with progression-free survival at 12 months
.

Under the guidance of Professor Rinse Weersma of the University of Groningen Medical Center in the Netherlands, Laura Bolte, author of the study and doctoral student, commented: "ICI has helped revolutionize the treatment
of different types of advanced cancer.
Our study highlights the importance of dietary assessment for cancer patients starting ICI treatment and supports the role
of dietary strategies in improving patient outcomes and survival.
”

The study also found that consuming whole grains and legumes may reduce the likelihood of developing drug-induced immune-related side effects, such as colitis
.
In contrast, red and processed meat are more
likely to have immune-related side effects.

"The relationship of ICI response to diet and gut microbiome opens up a promising and exciting future
for enhanced therapeutic response.
" Clinical trials are investigating the effects
of high-fiber diets, ketogenic diets, and omega-3 supplementation.
As ICI treatments are being extended to various types of tumors, including digestive cancers, these studies could bring therapeutic benefits to a large number of cancer patients in the future," Laura Bolte added
.