Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer present in men and the risk for development increases with age. With nearly 300,000 new cases of prostate cancer in 2023, prostate health is a significant health concern unique to men. Preventative measures, such as healthy dietary habits, have been found to manage prostate health.
The following foods may help keep your prostate healthy:
1. Berries
Berries like strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries contain antioxidants that can aid the body to protect itself from damage, reducing the risk of cancer, diabetes, and other health conditions.
2. Cruciferous Vegetables
Phytochemicals can be found in vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage, brussels sprouts, etc. and have been found to lower the risk of prostate cancer. Sulforaphane, a specific phytochemical found in these vegetables, prevents the development or growth of prostate tumors.
3. Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, which has been found to reduce the risk of prostate cancers and slow its progression. To increase the levels of antioxidants, cooked tomatoes make it easier for the body to absorb lycopene and send it to the prostate.
4. Green Tea
With high levels of antioxidants catechins, regular green tea consumption is an excellent way to reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Catechins have both anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.
5. Fish
Fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines, trout, etc., contain omega-3 fatty acids which are health fats that have anti-inflammatory effects on the body. Other than preventing cancer, these omega-3s can prevent a stroke and heart disease.
6. Legumes
Lentils, peas, and beans are all legumes that are great sources of protein, fiber, and the plant compounds called phytoestrogens, which can suppress tumor growth.
7. Garlic
Garlic contains sulfur compounds which are known for anti-inflammatory properties which can prevent the growth of cancer cells in the body. Garlic is an easy ingredient to cook with and can be incorporated into numerous recipes.
8. Turmeric
Curcumin is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant present in turmeric that can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells.
With that being said, there are also foods doctors are recommending limiting the consumption of to protect the prostate. These include:
1. Red meat
Research has found that regular red meat consumption can increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.
2. Dairy
Overconsumption of dairy has been found to put males at a higher risk of an enlarged prostate.
Lifestyle Tips:
In addition to a healthy diet, containing foods listed above, a healthy lifestyle is important for prostate health. Regular exercise and screenings are recommended to reduce the development and progression of prostate cancer.
A healthy lifestyle and proactive measures can protect your prostate, reducing the risk of prostate cancer and other health conditions. Start incorporating these foods into your diet today to support prostate health.
Sources:
Living healthy: What can I eat for prostate health?. What Can I Eat for Prostate Health? - Urology Care Foundation. (n.d.). https://www.urologyhealth.org/healthy-living/urologyhealth-extra/magazine-archives/fall-2023-benign-prostatic-hyperplasia-(bph)/what-can-i-eat-for-prostate-health
10 Great Foods for Prostate Health. Alliance Urology. (2024, March 26). https://allianceurology.com/10-great-foods-for-prostate-health/
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