The prostate is about the size of a walnut and plays a role in producing and secreting seminal fluid. Older men have an increased risk of developing prostate problems, including prostatitis, or inflamed prostate, as well as prostate cancer. Incorporating certain foods into your diet can help prevent prostate problems in the future.
Fruits and Vegetables
Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables might help prevent prostate problems. Researchers Robert Ma and K. Chapman reviewed the literature regarding the relationship between diet and the risk of prostate cancer. They concluded that a diet low in fat and high in fruits and vegetables might help prevent prostate problems, including cancer. Eating certain vegetables such as broccoli, tomatoes and cauliflower were shown to have beneficial effects for preventing prostate cancer compared to other vegetables, according to findings reported in the April 2009 issue of the "Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics."
Onions
Prostatitis can cause symptoms such as pain or burning when urinating, frequent urination and pain when ejaculating. Quercetin, an antioxidant flavonoid found in foods such as onions, apples and berries, might reduce pain and inflammation associated with prostatitis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center website.
Green Tea
Green tea is loaded with potent antioxidants called catechins, which might be beneficial for reducing the risk of developing prostate cancer. Researchers from the University of Parma randomly assigned men at high risk of developing prostate cancer green tea catechins or a placebo for 12 months. At the end of the study, scientists observed that the green catechin group was significantly less likely to develop prostate cancer compared to those were administered a placebo. Researchers discovered that green tea targets and kills prostate cancer cells by inducing apoptosis, or cell death. The main catechin responsible for cell death is epigallocatechin gallate, according to findings reported at the 96th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research in 2005.
