Prostate cancer is one of the leading types of cancer to affect men. It can affect other nearby organs and cause complications, such as erectile dysfunction, incontinence and pain. Speak to your doctor about dietary changes you can make to prevent prostate cancer and manage symptoms if you are diagnosed with the disease.
Effects
If you are undergoing cancer treatment, you may develop side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, constipation and loss of appetite. Nutritional deficiencies can also occur from chemotherapy, radiation and the cancer itself. Eat small meals frequently and keep crackers on hand to combat nausea. Avoid foods that may upset your stomach, such as spicy foods, strong smelling vegetables, creamy soups and acidic fruits. Instead eat bland foods, such as breads, vegetables, pasta and rice.
Features
It is common for cancer patients to lose weight. When you have prostate cancer, your body chemistry changes and you may have difficulty metabolizing certain nutrients. Your doctor is likely to suggest an increase in calories and protein to help your body fight off the disease. Foods you choose should be calorie and nutrient dense. Examples include dried fruit, nuts, seeds, fish, vegetables, beans, chicken and turkey.
Considerations
Alcohol should be avoided if you suffer from prostate cancer. If you drink heavily, you are at an increased risk of aggressive and rapidly forming prostate cancer. To keep hydrated, you should instead drink plenty of fluids, such as water, sports drink, ginger ale and tea. During prostate cancer treatment, you should aim to drink 10 beverages daily.
Prevention
You can take steps to prevent the onset of prostate cancer. Men who eat diets high in fat and red meat are at the greatest risk of developing prostate cancer. Another risk of prostate cancer is consuming high amounts of full fat dairy products. Men who drink two or more glasses of milk are three times more likely to develop the disease.
