Prostate cancer is characterized by the presence of a malignant growth on the prostate gland. The prostate is a walnut-sized gland found at the base of the bladder in men. Its main function is to manufacture the liquid component of semen. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer to affect men; however it is highly treatable if caught early. Some nutritional supplements may support the health of men suffering from prostate cancer though there is no conclusive evidence to show they can treat the cancer itself.
Selenium
According to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, taking a dietary supplement containing 200 micrograms of selenium daily could reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. Selenium is a trace mineral that is required in small amounts by the body. The Office of Dietary supplements notes that plant foods are the best source of selenium; however the mineral is also found in other foods such as tuna, beef, turkey and noodles. Some people may need to take a dietary supplement of selenium. These include people with a iodine deficiency and those suffering from gastrointestinal disorders.
Lycopene
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that taking 15 mg of lycopene twice daily may help fight cancer. According to an article published in the November 2009 edition of "Nutrition and Cancer," lycopene may help to prevent prostate cancer due to its antioxidant properties. Lycopene is a carotenoid and is found in foods such as tomatoes and watermelon. It can also be taken as a dietary supplement, though MayoClinic.com notes that the safety of lycopene supplements has not been fully established.
Genistein
According to the Prostate Cancer Research Institute, genistein may suppress the growth of prostate cancer cells and may also enhance the effects of prostate cancer treatments such as radiation. Genistein is a soy-derived isoflavone and phytoestrogen and may have antioxidant and immunosuppressive effects, notes the National Cancer Institute. Genistein is found in a host of foods including soybeans, tofu, chili-pepper and chickpeas and can also be taken as a dietary supplement.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Prostate Cancer
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Selenium
- "Nutrition and Cancer"; Lycopene Effects Contributing to Prostate Health; K. Wertz; November 2009
- MayoClinic: Lycopene
- Prostate Cancer Research Institute: Can Natural Dietary Supplements Really Impact Prostate Cancer?
- National Cancer Institute: Genistein
