The prostate is a gland that produces semen and aids in carrying sperm out of the body. Maintaining good prostate health is important in order to prevent prostate problems, such as prostate cancer. Prostate cancer can be life-threatening; symptoms include difficulty or pain when urinating, reduced force of urine stream, pain in the back and hip and blood in the urine. Maintaining a well-balanced diet is important for a healthy prostate, and certain nutrients are particularly helpful.
Selenium
Selenium is an important mineral for a healthy prostate. According to the National Institutes of Health, research shows that daily supplementation of 200 mcg of selenium in "high selenium yeasts" per day may lower the risk of cancers such as prostate, colorectal and lung. These yeasts may contain 1,000 to 2,000 mcg of selenium in a form called selenomethionine. Some yeasts contain forms of selenium that are not utilized as well because they are inorganic. Research is inconclusive and more studies are required.
Lycopene
Lycopene is a nutrient that has been linked to prostate cancer and its prevention, according to MayoClinic.com. This nutrient can be found in tomatoes that are raw or cooked. Evidence does not show that the food you eat can prevent prostate cancer, and more research is required.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an important vitamin for your health and may play a role in prostate health also. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), research has indicated that a specific type of this vitamin can inhibit growth of prostate cancer. This vitamin has also been shown to reduce prostate cancer risk in men who smoke. Evidence is not conclusive, and more research is required to establish an association. You can find this vitamin in many foods such as olive oil, avocado, nuts, nut butters and spinach.
Antioxidants
UMMC advises that you eat foods rich in antioxidants in order to reduce the symptoms of prostate cancer. Antioxidants are substances that protect your body from free radicals, substances that invade your body and cause cellular damage, infection and illness. Vitamins C, E, and A are all antioxidants that you can find in many foods. Eating these foods may offer you a protective benefit from cancer and help strengthen your body's ability to fight poor prostate health. Good antioxidant-rich choices include berries, cherries, oranges, bell peppers and broccoli.
