Try these foods that support prostate health.
During the month of September, we are reminded to check in with our prostate health, or the health of a loved one. One of the best ways we can do that is to seek out foods that support prostate health. So, today let’s talk about what that means.
Facts About the Prostate
The prostate is located just below the bladder and is part of the male reproductive system. Its role is to produce a fluid that makes up part of the semen. Normally, the prostate is about the size of a walnut and sits around the urethra, which is the tube that empties urine into the bladder.
When the prostate becomes enlarged, it can narrow that tube and decrease urine flow, leading to many health problems. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men, and it’s one of the leading causes of death among men each year.
Caring for Your Prostate
Men should keep a close eye on their prostate health by getting a routine physical each year. Eating foods that support prostate health is another easy way to protect your prostate and possibly avoid cancer.
There are also prostate supporting supplements that you can take daily, to ensure you are getting the vitamins and minerals you need for your prostate. For starters, try supplements like Prostate Support by Solgar or Healthy Prostate Formula by Professional Supplement Center.
Foods That Support Prostate Health
Supporting your prostate through diet is fairly easy. Here is a list of the foods that are thought to have a benefit to prostate health. Changing your diet and following up with your doctor may be all you need to stay prostate healthy.
- Broccoli – Some studies show that eating a diet full of cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, can lower your risk of prostate cancer. Scientists believe a phytochemical called sulforaphane in these veggies targets and kills cancer cells, while sparing healthy normals cells in the prostate. Other cruciferous veggies include:
- Brussel Sprouts
- Cauliflower
- Collard Greens
- Cabbage
- Kale
- Green Tea – Already known for its use as a powerful antioxidant, researchers now believe that green tea may reduce your risk of prostate cancer by stunting tumor growth, among several other things. Try Tulsi Tea Green Tea by Organic India. Or, if you’re not a fan of drinking tea, you can still reap all of it’s wonderful benefits in a capsule, such as EGCG from Green Tea by Source Naturals.
- Tomatoes – Here’s an easy one to add to your diet, some studies suggest that men who add more tomatoes to their diets, have less of a chance of developing prostate cancer. While these studies are still preliminary, it couldn’t hurt to give it a try. Some easy way to add more tomatoes to each meal include:
- Tomato Juice
- Pizza Sauce
- Pasta Marinara
- Caprese Salad
- Omega 3s – Several studies report a link between consuming more omega 3 fatty acids and a lower risk of developing an aggressive form of prostate cancer. Omega 3s have tons of other health benefits as well. You can get them naturally in your diet by eating plenty of fish such as trout, salmon, mackerel and herring, or you can add a supplement to your daily routine.
- Saw Palmetto – Used for thousands of years, the saw palmetto herb (as well as stinging nettle) are touted for their effect on the prostate by supporting healthy urine flow and decreasing inflammation.
Protecting your prostate can be easy by incorporating these foods that support prostate health. Maintaining a healthy weight and getting regular exercise also go a long way towards promoting a healthier you. Use this as a reminder to do a little extra for your prostate today!
