Can Diet or Supplements Help Slow Myeloma Progression?

Question

Can a plant-based diet or specific supplements (omega-3, curcumin, or probiotics) change the gut microbiome in a way that helps prevent or slow myeloma progression? 

Description

Your large intestine contains a community of bacteria called your gut microbiome, which promotes your health in various ways. One of your gut bacteria’s important substances is butyrate, a short chain fatty acid that is produced by some types of gut bacteria when they break down or digest fiber. Butyrate is being studied for its potential effect against both cancer and inflammation. 

Researchers have seen that a plant-based diet may increase butyrate levels. A plant-based diet includes foods that are mainly found in plants (for example, fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and whole grains). Researchers have also seen that omega-3, curcumin, and probiotic supplements may increase butyrate levels when taken alone. This study is designed to evaluate how butyrate levels change in participants’ stool after they are on a plant-based diet or supplements for at least 2 weeks. Information from this study will help understand the usefulness of plant-based diets or dietary supplements (omega-3, curcumin, or probiotics) in preventing progression to multiple myeloma in people with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) or smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM).

Impact

Your participation will help researchers understand whether a plant-based diet or specific supplements can support gut health and potentially slow myeloma progression. By examining how these changes affect the gut microbiome, the study aims to provide valuable insights into early prevention strategies for people with MGUS or SMM. This research could contribute to future approaches that help manage or even prevent myeloma from developing.

Type

The study has four groups, and participants could be randomized into any of them: a whole-food plant-based diet, omega-3, curcumin, or probiotics.

Who Can Join

People with MGUS or SMM who meet study eligibility criteria and are open to making a temporary change to their diet or supplementation intake.

Length of Study

5 weeks total (2 weeks of intervention).

Next Steps

If you're interested in the study, please start by completing this survey:

Complete Nutrivention Survey

If you have any questions, please contact Support, at (800) 709-1113 or send us an email at support@healthtree.org

Research Partners