A new study has found that keeping cholesterol levels in check may do more than reduce the risk for heart disease. Researchers say men who eat a healthy diet and have low levels of bad cholesterol also reduce their risk of developing the most aggressive type of prostate cancer.

The report published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention found that men with cholesterol levels under 200 milligrams per deciliter had a 59 percent lower risk than those with higher readings of developing the most dangerous form of the cancer.

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center analyzed health records of more than 5,500 men who took part in a cancer study during the 1990s. They said that although prostate cancer was diagnosed in a relatively equal number of participants despite their cholesterol levels, only those with levels over 200 were at greater risk of developing a severely dangerous form of the disease.

It’s a finding those involved with the study call significant. "It is a notable reduction which is not often seen for prostate cancer," said study author Elizabeth Platz.

Recent research has suggested a vegetable-rich diet and pomegranate juice may lower the risk of prostate cancer due to their antioxidant power.

Other studies have linked omega-3 fatty acids and soy to better prostate health.