Foods That Can Help Prevent Prostate Cancer
According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, one in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer within his lifetime inside the United States. The prostate is a gland located below the bladder, as part of the male reproductive system and typically affects men who are over the age of 50. Amongst the more at risk are those men who have an immediate relative with the disease. The most telling symptoms of prostate cancer is problems with urination; including weak or interrupted urination stream, the patient incurring pain or burning during urination, or having to urinate more frequently.
There can also sometimes be traced semen or blood found in the urine. Other symptoms include pain during ejaculation or consistent pain in the back, hips or pelvis. If a man is experiencing any of the symptoms, he should consult a physician as he may have one of the most serious of men’s cancers. Although there are several prostate cancer treatments, the best way to combat the threat of prostate cancer is related to one’s diet. Experts agree that including the following foods on a regular basis can reduce the risk of prostate cancer:
1. Cruciferous Vegetables
Broccoli, kale, collard greens, cabbage, and other cruciferous veggies are healthy green leafy vegetables that are low in carbohydrates, and which have shown to have links to cancer cells. In addition, these veggies are high antioxidants and phytochemicals; both of which help to prevent cell changes that can help stop cancer cells from forming.
2. Fatty fish
Fish such as Salmon, Mackerel, sardines, and halibut are also foods that should be included regularly in a prostate cancer diet. These fish are particularly high in omega-3 fatty acids. This acid has been known to ward off prostate cancer.
3. Nuts
Brazilian nuts in particular are high in selenium, a mineral that decreases as a man ages. Snacking on Brazilian nuts can help replenish selenium which is one of the most important minerals in combating the development of the man’s cancer. Walnuts are also low in carbs and high in omega-3 fatty acids.
4. Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain lycopene; a plant pigment that can prevent prostate cancer. However, doctors advise that this works best when paired with a fat.
5. Dark berries
Berries have also been known to help reduce cancer risks. However, men should be sure to monitor their intake of berries as they are also high in sugar. And high sugar levels have been linked to cancers.
6. Carrots and squash
Vegetables that a rich in beta-carotene such as carrots, squash and pumpkins. Beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A when broken down and has antioxidant properties.
7. Coffee
Drinking coffee is also contains antioxidants and studies have shown that drinking 4-5 cups daily can help reduce prostate cancer risks. Coffee has also been known to help break down sugar within the body.
Prostate cancer is a serious concern for aging men. However, including coffee and certain foods such as broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, walnuts can have a great effect on one’s health. While cancer is not 100% preventable, taking steps in eating a prostate cancer diet can help significantly reduce the risk of contracting this terrible disease.