Super foods that make or break your prostate health

What you eat, and when you eat; your lifestyle can increase or reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. Although there has been a lot of research about the role that nutrition plays in keeping your prostate healthy, but we have compiled a simple list of super foods that you may consume in your daily diet which may be affecting your prostate health as we speak.

Healthcare experts believe, that a healthy and nutritious diet is important to prevent any sorts of prostate problems. Ironically, some foods that you consume that are good for your overall health, may still be threatening your prostate without you noticing. Similarly, some diets you may want to avoid can still keep your prostate healthy. As a general rule, a prostate-friendly diet consists of plenty of colorful vegetables, fruits, animal-based protein in moderate amounts, low sugar, and processed carbs.

Foods to Avoid with Enlarged Prostate

Red Meat

Eating too much red meat or well-cooked meat increases your risk of prostate cancer. That’s because processed meat and red meat contain a high concentration of HCAs (heterocyclic amines), a compound that is shown to have carcinogens. Beef, pork, sausage, and hot dog are a few red and processed meat items that can cause prostate cancer. You must switch red meat with foods rich in protein instead.

Dairy

This research shows that drinking a considerable amount of whole milk can speed up prostate cancer progression. If you can’t avoid dairy altogether, try to limit it as much as possible. Full-fat cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and whole milk are a few dairy products that can harm your prostate.

Alcohol

You should try to avoid alcohol for your overall health. But, scientists and healthcare experts believe that people relying too much on alcohol are more likely to develop prostate cancer than moderate drinkers or those who don’t drink alcohol.

Saturated Fats

We need more research to know the effect of saturated foods on your risk of developing prostate cancer. However, some studies show that these foods put you at a higher risk of cancer. As a rule of thumb, it is best to avoid saturated food, as it creates more space for fiber and other essential nutrients.

Best Foods for Prostate health

Green Leafy Vegetables

Green vegetables are good for people with all health conditions. It’s your go-to food for people with weight management goals. Cabbage, cauliflower, kale, and sprouts are a few green vegetables that are quite beneficial for your prostate.

These veggies contain antioxidants, vitamins, and many minerals that keep you and your prostate healthy. Not only does it reduce the risk of inflammation, but some of these vegetables can prevent the growth of cancer cells.

Fish

Scientists and Urologists believe that inflammation inside your prostate gland can lead to the growth of cancerous cells. In fact, these cells are likely to spread rapidly due to an existing inflammation. That’s why healthcare specialists primarily focus on reducing inflammation within the prostate. Fish is one of the few animal-based foods that promote your prostate health. Salmon, trout, and sardines provide your body with good fats that reduce inflammation.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in Lycopene, an antioxidant element that plays a key role in keeping your prostate healthy. Although the effects of lycopene on prostate cancer are unknown, lycopene is beneficial for your overall prostate health. If you want your body to absorb lycopene quickly, consider taking tomatoes with olive oil.

Coffee and Tea

Green tea contains catechins, an antioxidant that prevents the cells from multiplying. Green tea is also anti-carcinogenic, which means it prevents the growth of cancerous cells. Coffee can also reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. However, you shouldn’t drink sugary tea and coffee. Avoid pre-sweetened lattes or beverages containing cream. Replace these drinks with green tea, instead.

These were only to name a few. There’s more research needed to understand the role of your diet on the prostate and which foods can reduce your risk of prostate diseases. As a rule of thumb, foods rich in essential vitamins and minerals can keep your prostate healthy.

Dr. Soumyan Dey, the Prostate Cancer Surgeon in Mumbai, specializes in diagnosing and treating Prostate Cancer, prostate enlargement, urinary tract stones, and other urological cancers. First, the doctor recommends digital rectal examination and blood tests to identify the chances of prostate cancer. Then, they perform prostate biopsy and MRI to get a clear picture of the prostate glands and the stage of cancer.