Prostate health conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlargement of the prostate are found in as many as 50% of men who are over 50 in the UK. In 2012, as much as 43,000 cases of prostate cancer were reported. Prostate cancer is among the most common, if not the most common, type of cancer in the country. Obesity has been found to be one of the leading links to various cancers, including prostate cancer.
While the number may seem overwhelming, prostate problems are largely curable. With healthy diet, prostate problems are also found to be avoidable. Good lifestyle and diet choices have been found to help in preventing prostate cancer and prostate-related problems.
While experts recommend a cut-down on intake of salt, alcohol, caffeine, red meat and dairy products, the following may help in maintaining a healthy prostate:
#1. Have soy and soy products.
Studies show consumption of soy beans and soy products can slow down the progress of prostate cancer cells. They are also found to prevent prostate cancer recurrence after a successful treatment.
#2. Eat tomatoes and other pink or red fruits.
Lycopene, which is abundant in tomatoes and especially in tomato skin, has been touted to protect against cancer, including prostate cancer. It also aids in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Quick Nutrition: Prostate Diet author, Dr Sarah Brewer, says in her book: "Lycopene is locked away inside tomato cells, especially in the skins, which contain up to five times more lycopene than the pulp.
When tomatoes are cooked, they also release five times more lycopene than is available for absorption if you eat the same tomatoes raw. Tomato ketchup and tomato purée (which are concentrated) are among the richest dietary sources."
Besides tomatoes, other pink or red-coloured fruits also provide similar benefits.
#3. Eat pomegranates.
Besides an effective protection against prostate cancer, consumption of pomegranates have also been found to lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, dental plaque and kidney disorders.
#4. Include regular helpings of broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, spinach and sprouts.
Regular consumption of vegetables from the cabbage family (cruciferous), including kale and bok choy, have been found to slow down growth and development of prostate cancer cells.
