Red Meat Consumption During LU-177 Therapy for Prostate Cancer
Consuming moderate amounts of red meat can help improve blood counts in patients undergoing Lutetium-177 (LU-177) infusions for prostate cancer, particularly for those experiencing hematological toxicities.
Hematological Considerations in LU-177 Therapy
LU-177 PSMA therapy is a targeted treatment for metastatic prostate cancer that commonly causes hematological toxicities including:
- Anemia (decreased red blood cells)
- Thrombocytopenia (decreased platelets)
- Leukopenia (decreased white blood cells)
These side effects occur in a significant percentage of patients, with grade 3-4 adverse events occurring in 52.7% of patients receiving Lu-177 PSMA therapy compared to 38.0% with standard care alone 1.
Benefits of Red Meat for Blood Counts
Red meat offers several nutrients that can support blood count recovery:
Heme Iron: Red meat contains highly bioavailable heme iron that is more readily absorbed than non-heme iron from plant sources 2. This is particularly important for patients with anemia.
Protein: High-quality protein in red meat supports overall recovery and immune function.
Vitamin B12: Essential for red blood cell formation and neurological function.
Zinc: Important for immune function and wound healing, which may be compromised during cancer treatment.
Recommended Approach
For patients undergoing LU-177 therapy with decreased blood counts:
- Frequency: Consume small amounts of unprocessed red meat (1-2 servings/week) 2
- Portion size: 3-4 oz (85-113g) per serving
- Preparation: Choose cooking methods that minimize formation of advanced glycation end products (avoid charring)
- Type: Prioritize unprocessed cuts over processed meats (avoid bacon, sausage, deli meats) 2
Important Considerations
Avoid processed meats: Processed meats contain high levels of sodium, preservatives, and nitrates that may increase cardiovascular risk 2.
Balance with other protein sources: Include fish, poultry, legumes, and plant proteins in the diet.
Monitor blood counts: Regular assessment of hematological parameters (hemoglobin, platelets, leukocytes) is necessary before each cycle to monitor for toxicity 1.
Timing considerations: Consume red meat between treatment cycles rather than immediately before or after LU-177 infusions.
Complementary Nutritional Strategies
In addition to moderate red meat consumption, consider:
Adequate hydration: Essential during LU-177 therapy to support kidney function and radiopharmaceutical clearance 2
Balanced diet: Include plenty of vegetables and fruits to provide antioxidants and phytonutrients
Small, frequent meals: May be easier to manage than three large meals per day if experiencing treatment-related side effects 2
Multivitamin-mineral supplement: Consider if nutrient deficiencies are present or if food intake is inadequate 2
Caution
While red meat can be beneficial for blood counts, excessive consumption should be avoided due to potential associations with cardiovascular disease and other health concerns. The goal is to incorporate moderate amounts of unprocessed red meat as part of an overall balanced diet during cancer treatment.
Remember to discuss any significant dietary changes with your healthcare provider, as individual needs may vary based on specific medical conditions, treatment protocols, and overall health status.