1. Include Lycopene-Rich Foods
When it comes to planning a healthy diet for prostrate cancer, be sure to include plenty of tomatoes and other lycopene-rich fruits--such as watermelons, pink grapefruits, guava and papaya--in your meal plans. Lycopene acts as a powerful antioxidant and is recognized as one of the most prostate-healthy compounds available. If possible, increase your consumption of cooked tomatoes or tomato-based products, since they provide more nutritional value than lycopene supplements. Tomato sauce, salsa and even ketchup are good sources of lycopene and can be used in a variety of ways to add flavor and nutrients to any meal.
2. Quality Is More Important Than Quantity
Managing portion sizes as part of an overall weight-management strategy is important. By choosing nutritious foods over fatty foods and foods high in sugar, you'll be able to create a well-rounded and satisfying diet that has the added benefit of providing your body with a variety of prostate-cancer-fighting nutrients, such as lycopene, sulforaphane and omega-3 fatty acids.
If you enjoy fettuccine Alfredo, opt instead for a tomato-based sauce with fresh tomatoes, green, leafy vegetables and salmon. Instead of eating a double cheeseburger, choose a grilled-chicken sandwich with extra tomatoes and ketchup in the place of mayonnaise as a healthier and equally satisfying alternative. Likewise, fresh tomato salsa is better than a sour-cream-based chip dip. Adding soy milk to your coffee instead of skim milk adds isoflavones without altering the taste. Green tea is better than herbal tea, and tomato juice is a better choice than orange juice. By making smart choices while dining in or out, you can increase the quality of your food intake in smaller, healthier portions.
3. Know Your Saturated Fats
Trendy diets that are high in red meat and animal fats and low in fiber, fruits and vegetables may help with short-term weight management but could cause long-term side effects, since they deprive the body of the many nutrients it needs to stay healthy. While it's important to include foods high in omega-3 fatty acids in your diet, you should understand that not all saturated fats are created equally. For example, the omega-3 fatty acids found mostly in fatty fish may be more helpful in the fight against prostate cancer than those found in dairy products and red meat. However, the best diets include foods from all five food groups, ensuring adequate vitamin and mineral intake.
