Prostate cancer is one of the most common health issues among men, affecting about every one in nine males in the United States. That’s why September has been deemed Prostate Health Month, and one of the best ways to support your prostate health is with the foods you eat.
Prostate Health Risks
Because prostate cancer is so prominent in the United States, it’s risks have been studied heavily. Some risks can’t be helped, such as age, family history, and ethnicity (African American males are more likely to develop prostate cancer), but there are several other lifestyle related risk factors that you can control. Here are some of them:
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Diet
- Chemical Exposure
- STDs such as Gonorrhea and Chlamydia
- Having a Vasectomy
Foods that Support Prostate Health
One of the easiest ways to support prostate health is by changing your diet, taking a daily multivitamin from brands like SP Ultimate and focusing more on foods that support prostate health, and avoiding those that put it at risk. Here is a list of foods that can help keep your prostate thriving.
Fish
Eating cold water fish that are high in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids is a great way to support prostate health.. Some of the best fish to choose include:
- Herring
- Salmon
- Mackerel
- Sardines
- Trout
Although eating fish is a great way to support prostate health, not everyone is a fan. If you simply can’t stand the taste, or if you are allergic to fish, you can use Omega 3 and Omega 6 supplements to make sure you are still getting plenty of those good fatty acids.
Tomatoes
Load up on the marinara and the caprese salad, because tomatoes contain a powerful prostate cancer fighting antioxidant called lycopene. Can’t stand the taste of tomatoes? Try a lycopene supplement instead.
Broccoli
Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli have been shown to support prostate health. In fact, eating broccoli just a few times a week could have a major impact on your risk of developing prostate cancer, so keep downing those little trees!
Other cruciferous vegetables to try include:
- Arugula
- bok choy
- Turnips
- Kale
- Cabbage
- Brussel Sprouts
Green Tea
Swap your coffee for some delicious green tea in the morning, and it could have a major impact on your prostate health. Green tea is a great source of antioxidants including special compounds known as catechins. The most beneficial catechins include EGCG and epicatechin which are known to be cancer fighting machines. Green tea extract can also be taken as a supplement.
Pomegranate Juice
Research has shown that drinking pomegranate juice or extract can slow the progression of prostate cancer. If you are taking any prescription medications, talk with your doctor first about any interactions they might have with pomegranate juice.
It’s time to get serious about your prostate health. Simple changes to your diet and supplement routine can make a big difference, and it’s something you can start now. Stay healthy out there!