Maintaining a healthy prostate is crucial for men’s overall well-being. With an estimated 288,300 new cases of prostate cancer in 2023, it is essential to know how to care for your prostate. While regular check-ups and medical advice are essential, incorporating prostate-friendly foods into your diet can provide an additional boost to support prostate health.
Foods For Optimal Prostate Health
Research suggests a diet that is high in colorful vegetables, low in sugar and processed carbohydrates, and moderate in animal-based protein is key for optimal prostate health. Here at Alliance Urology, we have put together a list of great foods that can contribute to prostate health and overall wellness.
1. Tomatoes
Not only are tomatoes versatile and delicious, but they also contain lycopene, which has been shown to help reduce the risk of prostate cancer and slow the growth of prostate tumors. To increase the absorption of this antioxidant, it is suggested to cook your tomatoes or pair them with a healthy fat, like olive oil.
2. Berries
Nature’s candy has more benefits than just being sweet and delicious. Berries, including strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, are all packed full of antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage. Including berries in your diet can improve your prostate health while contributing to your overall health.
3. Cruciferous Vegetables
Sulforaphane is a phytochemical found in many cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage, bok choy, and more. Sulforaphane has been associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer. The NIH suggests sulforaphane can play a “protective role” in prostate cancer by preventing the development and progression of prostatic tumors.
4. Green Tea
Green tea may not have been first to mind when it comes to prostate health. However, green tea is a rich source of antioxidants called catechins, which have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Regular consumption of green tea has been associated with a reduced risk of prostate cancer.
5. Fatty Fish
Fatty fish is considered a superfood and for good reason. Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines contain Omega-3s, which have a laundry list of benefits. Some of the most notable are preventing heart disease and stroke, helping control lupus, and can play protective roles in cancer and other life-threatening conditions.
6. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds contain a phytochemical that can help prevent prostate problems. It is recommended to eat roughly 5 grams of pumpkin seeds daily when dealing with benign prostatic hyperplasia. If eating pumpkin seeds by the handful isn’t for you, try sprinkling them on top of your favorite salad.
7. Walnuts
In the seed and nut family, walnuts also can have considerable benefits when it comes to your prostate health. Walnuts are rich in nutrients like zinc, selenium, and vitamin E, which have been linked to prostate health. Additionally, they provide healthy fats and protein.
8. Garlic
Garlic has more of a purpose than leveling up a dish. Garlic is a part of the allium vegetable family, which contains sulfur compounds. These compounds are thought to help protect against prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Additionally, garlic may help decrease your blood pressure and prevent blood clots.
9. Turmeric
Used in Asia for thousands of years, turmeric contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that curcumin may inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells.
10. Legumes
Beans, lentils, and peas are all a part of the legume family and boast as an excellent source of fiber, protein, and other various nutrients. Not only are legumes great for your overall health, but they also may help suppress tumor growth.
Eating a nutritious diet offers benefits well beyond the realm of prostate health, offering numerous advantages for overall well-being. To diagnose and treat any common problem related to the prostate or genitourinary system, schedule an appointment with one of our providers. Our team has years of experience treating issues pertaining to the urinary tract, bladder, and male reproductive system. For questions and inquiries, please call our office in Greensboro at (336) 274-1114.
