Good nutrition may help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer as well as slow the progression of the disease. Here is a guide for a healthy diet and good prostate health.

Healthy Diets

We know that improved nutrition reduces risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and obesity, and usually improves overall quality of life. A healthy diet also helps to increase energy levels, facilitate recovery and enhance the immune system.

Guidelines for a Healthy Diet

• Your diet should be:
  • Primarily plant based
  • Include plenty of fruits and vegetables
  • High in fiber
  • Low in fat
  • Limited in the amount of simple sugars

Diet Tips for Prostate Health

1. Eat Fruits and Vegetables
   • Fruits and vegetables contain large amounts of cancer-fighting and inflammation-reducing substances like vitamins, polyphenols, antioxidants, minerals and natural fiber. Most men and women do not consume the recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables. If you are working to change the way you eat, aim to make manageable changes. Try to include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet.
     • Cruciferous vegetables (includes broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale and cabbage) have phytochemicals that reduce Oxidative stress or oxygen free radicals in the body which means a lower risk of prostate cancer and its aggression
     • Carrots are rich in nutrients and contain antioxidants beta-carotene and falcarinol that reduce the risk of cancer
     • Tomatoes are a rich source of a phytochemical called lycopene which attacks free radicals helping the body lower the risk of prostate cancer and its aggression
     • Mushrooms help fight cancer by building the immune system with a supply of compounds called beta glucan and proteins called lectin which have shown to attack cancer cells
     • Pomegranates, particularly pomegranate juice, have been shown to slow PSA doubling time and may help prevent prostate cancer recurrence after primary treatment
     • Grapes and grape juice are rich sources of resveratrol, a type of natural phytochemical that belongs to a larger group of phytochemicals called polyphenols that possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
     • Grapefruit contains several phytochemicals including naringenin, limonin, beta-carotene and lycopene
     • Oranges, lemons and other citrus fruits help protect against DNA-damaging free radicals because they contain hundreds of bioactive compounds including flavonoids and monoterpenes
     • Avocados contain the highest amount of the carotenoid luteinutein of all common fruit
     • Peppers and jalapenos contain a chemical, capsaicin, which neutralizes certain cancer causing substances
     • Apples are a good source of fiber, vitamin C and contain quercetin, a flavonoid that shows both anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
     • Berries (raspberries and blueberries) are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, manganese and a good source of fiber and blueberries are among the fruits highest in antioxidant power because of the many phytochemicals they contain.
     • Limit Consumption of Animal Protein
       • Diets high in red meat, dairy products and animal fat have frequently been connected with the development of prostate cancer. Red meat (such as beef, pork, and lamb) is particularly tied to aggressive prostate cancer.
     • Seek Plant Protein
       • Plant-based protein like beans, flax and nuts contain quercetin and lignans that suppress the growth of many kinds of cancer including prostate cancer.
     • Green Tea
       • Green tea contains polyphenols and flavonoids which are strong antioxidants. Tea is the best source of catechins which are being studied for their anti-cancer properties. Green tea has been shown to slow and/or prevent the development of prostate cancer.
     • Whole Grains
       • Whole grains include brown rice, oatmeal, corn, whole wheat bread, barley, bulgar, kasha, millet, faro, quinoa, and more. Whole grains are great sources of fiber and magnesium and provide protein. Choose food made with whole grain over processed foods.
     • Limit Sugary Drinks
       • Cutting down on surgery carbonated beverages and drinking water can speed metabolism and flush the body of cancer-causing substances.
     • Choose Organic Foods when Possible
       • Organically grown food is free of harmful chemicals and pesticides, including BPA, a known prostate cancer carcinogen. Organically grown foods have more nutrients than non-organic foods.