Some experts say differences in lifestyle and diet play a role in the disproportional rate that African-American men are likely to die from prostate cancer than other ethnicities, especially white men.
READ: Explore Your Prostate Cancer Treatment Options
One way to treat any prostate inflammation (chronic prostatitis), which some experts say can possibly develop into prostate cancer, is to take a probiotic supplement. This natural, alternative approach helps restore the balance of good and bad bacteria in the intestinal tract if you have been prescribed antibiotics for prostatitis.
According to the American Prostatitis Association, probiotics are the beneficial bacteria and microflora that live in your gut – similar to the good bacteria found in yogurt and other fermented foods. If you regularly take probiotics, APA reports, the chance of developing acute and chronic bacterial prostatitis decreases as you fight inflammation and possible infections.
Some common causes of bacterial prostatitis are urinary tract infections, epididymitis and urethritis.
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If you do develop prostatitis despite preventative efforts, probiotics can help with management. Here are some tips for finding good sources of probiotics:
Foods
Any type of fermented vegetables, yogurt, kefir and buttermilk are good sources of probiotics. Fermented vegetables include sauerkraut and kimchee. They typically don’t have a large amount of active bacteria in them, however. Pasteurization and processing of these foods typically kill any good bacteria.
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Whole foods and natural foods are also great for your diet – including non-acidic fruits, high-quality protein, foods high in zinc and zinc supplements, omega-3 fatty acids and healthy fats found in the Mediterranean diet, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. Water is also crucial. Drink more water and try to avoid soda and caffeine.
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Men’s Probiotic Supplement
Try to find products that include reputable Lactobacillus (lactic acid bacteria that help break down food, promote digestion and also helps eliminate bad bacteria) and Bifidobacterium (supports the immune system, aids in digestion, fights allergic reactions and infections, reduces cholesterol levels and hosts other anti-cancer properties) species to ensure a healthy balance of good and bad bacteria in your gut. It’s possible to also combine prostatitis probiotics with additional natural supplements, such as quercetin and pollen extracts.
Foods To Avoid
APA also reports that certain foods can exacerbate prostatitis symptoms. These foods include spicy foods and hot peppers, which can increase rectal sensitivity in people with irritable bowl syndrome – a condition associated with chronic prostatitis. Other foods to avoid are wheat, gluten, caffeine, acidic foods and alcoholic beverages.
