The prostate gland plays an important role in the male reproductive system. Conditions that may affect your prostate include prostatitis, or inflamed prostate, benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, or enlarged prostate and prostate cancer -- a common form of cancer that is best treated when detected early, according to the National Institutes of Health. A nutritious diet that promotes a healthy body weight can enhance your prostate health and help prevent prostate-related diseases.
Colorful Fruits
The nutrients that give fruits their colors also provide potent antioxidant, or disease-fighting, benefits. Since eating few fruits and vegetables is a risk factor for prostate cancer, according to the National Institutes of Health, increasing your produce intake may lower your risk. As fiber-rich, relatively low-calorie foods, whole fruits may also enhance digestive function, appetite control and weight management. Fruits particularly rich in antioxidants include berries, cherries, oranges, grapefruit, mangos, papaya, cantaloupe, kiwi, plums, red grapes and watermelon.
Vegetables
Vegetables, like fruits, supply rich amounts of antioxidants that help your body protect itself from infections and disease. Non-starchy vegetables, such as leafy greens, broccoli and bell peppers are some of the most nutrient-rich, yet low-calorie foods. Thus, you can consume ample amounts and still maintain or lose body weight. Eating at least five servings of vegetables per day is associated with a low incidence of BPH, according to MayoClinic.com nutritionists, Jennifer Nelson and Katherine Zeratsky. Consume a variety of types and colors for broadest nutrient benefits. Vegetables particularly high in antioxidants include red bell peppers, spinach, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, tomatoes, winter squash and sweet potatoes.
Whole Grains and Bran
Since whole grains contain all nutritious components of the original grain plant, they provide more fiber, nutrients and protein than refined grains. Bran is a particularly fiber-rich part of whole grains. According to a study published in the "Journal of Nutrition" in Oct. 2010, whole grain bran may help reduce tumor growth in men with prostate cancer. In the study, 17 men with prostate cancer consumed whole grains and rye products or refined wheat products for six weeks. The men who consumed whole grains and bran showed greater tumor reduction than men who did not. Researchers suspect that this benefit derives from the positive impact whole grains have on blood sugar levels. Whole grains also promote positive heart-health, digestive function and appetite control. To reap ample benefits from whole grains and bran, consume 100 percent whole grain breads, pasta, cereals and brown rice in place of enriched wheat or white flour products. To incorporate bran into your diet, sprinkle powdered bran over cereals, mix bran into baked goods and/or consume bran-based foods, such as low-fat bran muffins and bran flakes, regularly.
Lean Protein Sources
Protein supplies amino acids -- the building blocks of lean tissue. Protein sources high in saturated fat, such as fatty red meat, processed meats and whole milk, may hinder prostate health and increase your risk for disease, particularly when consumed in excess, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Opt instead for lean sources, such as skinless white-meat poultry, egg whites, low-fat milk and yogurt, beans, lentils and fish. Cold-water fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, herring, halibut and sardines, provide omega-3 fatty acids that may help prevent or reduce inflammation associated with prostate conditions. When preparing protein-rich foods, use low-fat cooking techniques, such as baking and broiling, most often.
References
- National Institutes of Health: Prostate Problems
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Prostate Cancer
- MayoClinic.com: Enlarged Prostate -- Does Diet Play a Role?
- "Journal of Nutrition"; Rye Whole Grain and Bran Intake Compared with Refined Wheat Decreases Urinary C-Peptide, Plasma Insulin, and Prostate Specific Antigen in Men with Prostate Cancer; Rikard Landberg et al.; Oct. 2010
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