In the United states, prostate cancer affects one out of every six men, according to the American Cancer Society. As a result, more physicians are now recommending diet adjustments to effectively treat and prevent prostate conditions. Although research is ongoing, more information is being revealed regarding the link between consuming a healthy diet and prostate health. As a health measure, any diet adjustments should be discussed with your doctor.
Tomatoes and Broccoli
According to Medical News Today, a 2007 study concluded that tomatoes and broccoli may shrink prostate tumors. The study found that eating the two vegetables together at meal time was more effective than consuming them separately at improving prostate abnormalities. Clinical researchers recommend that you consume 2.5 cups of fresh tomatoes or 1.5 cups of raw broccoli daily to improve prostate health and anti-cancer effects.
Vegan-based Foods
A study appearing in the 2005 "Journal of Urology" found that men with beginning stages of prostate cancer may alleviate their condition if they adjust their diet to mainly include vegetables, fruits, soy-based proteins and whole grains. During the study, participants also participated in counseling and exercise. After a yearlong study, the patients' progress was evaluated. Patients who changed their lifestyle and dietary habits showed decreased PSA, or prostate specific antigen, levels than the placebo group.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Adding omega-3 fatty nutrients to your diet is a beneficial way to improve prostate health. These polyunsaturated fats are known to possibly prevent cancer or other conditions by reducing body inflammation that are generally associated with prostate diseases. Omega-3 rich foods include salmon, tuna, mackerel and herring, says MayoClinic.com.
Soy
Soy is a plant-based source that imitates estrogen, a female hormone in the body. Consuming soy products may improve hormonal imbalances in your body, which may reduce your chances of developing prostate cancer, says MayoClinic.com. Prostate cancer rates in Asia are relatively low, and researchers attribute regular consumption of soy foods there to explain the statistics. Examples of soy-based foods include tempeh, soy milk, soy sauce, miso and tofu.
References
- American Cancer Society: Prostate Cancer
- MayoClinic.com: Prostate Cancer Prevention: What You Can Do
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch, CNC; 2004
- Medical News Today: Tomato-Broccoli Combo Shown To Be Effective In Shrinking Prostate Tumors
- Medical News Today: Vegan Diet and Exercise May Stop or Reverse Prostate Cancer Progression
