Melanoma, a prevalent and lethal form of
skin cancer, remains a formidable challenge in terms of prevention and treatment. While significant progress has been made in understanding its pathogenesis and treatment, the quest for effective prevention strategies and therapeutic approaches remains ongoing. Considering the increased advancements in understanding the dynamic interplay between nutrients and
melanoma, we aim to offer a refreshed perspective on nutrient-based approaches for
melanoma prevention and adjunctive
therapy. In contrast to other studies, we have innovatively provided a detailed exposition of the nutrients' influences on
melanoma prognosis and treatment. This review firstly examines various nutrients, including
antioxidants (namely
vitamins A, D, C, and E;
selenium; and
caffeine),
polyunsaturated fatty acids, and
flavonoids, for their effects and underlying mechanisms in reducing
melanoma risk. Among these nutrients,
caffeine shows the most promising potential, as it is supported by multiple cohort studies for its protective effect against
melanoma. In contrast, there is a certain degree of inconsistency in the research of other nutrients, possibly due to inherent differences between animal studies and epidemiological research, as well as variations in the definition of nutrient intake. To comprehensively investigate the impact of nutrients on
melanoma progression and therapeutic approaches, the following sections will explore how nutrients influence immune responses and other physiological processes. While there is robust support from cell and animal studies regarding the immunomodulatory attributes of
vitamins D and
zinc, the anti-angiogenic potential of
polyphenols, and the cell growth-inhibitory effects of
flavonoids, the limited availability of human-based research substantially constrains their practical relevance in clinical contexts. As for utilizing nutrients in adjuvant
melanoma treatments, multiple approaches have garnered clinical research support, including the utilization of
vitamin D to decrease the postoperative recurrence rates among
melanoma patients and the adoption of a high-fiber diet to enhance the effectiveness of
immunotherapy. In general, the effects of most nutrients on reducing the risk of
melanoma are not entirely clear. However, several nutrients, including
vitamin D and
dietary fiber, have demonstrated their potential to improve the
melanoma prognosis and enhance the treatment outcomes, making them particularly deserving of clinical attention. A personalized and interdisciplinary approach, involving dermatologists, oncologists, nutritionists, and researchers, holds the promise of optimizing
melanoma treatment strategies.