Be aware of what’s on your dinner plate because it could impact your prostate health.
Black men have the highest rate of prostate cancer in the world. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among Black men. But there are many easy ways to drastically lower your risks.
Did you know that even what you eat can have a direct effect on the prostate?
Certain nutrients can cause prostate cells to grow into a swelling mass, while others can help keep the cells at a natural level. Good nutrition is key to a healthy prostate, and cutting down on certain foods can help treat and prevent prostate problems, including enlargement and cancer.
For Starters: What’s The Prostate, Again?
The prostate gland is an organ located near the bladder that is responsible for producing semen.
It’s controlled by dihydrotestosterone (DHT) a sex hormone influenced largely by diet. Meat and dairy products increase hormonal stimulation, which can lead to prostate problems.
For instance, eating meat daily can triple the risk of prostate enlargement, drinking milk regularly can double the risk, and failing to eat vegetables quadruples that risk, according to Dr. Neal D. Barnard of The Cancer Project.
Best Dinner Nutrition Practices For The Healthiest Prostate
Fruits and Vegetables for Dinner Promote Healthy Prostate
A diet beneficial to a healthy prostate is primarily meat-free and full of fruits and veggies.
Both contain cancer-fighting vitamins, minerals and fibers that significantly reduce the chances of prostate issues.
Five to 10 daily servings are recommended; one serving might include a half cup of a fruit or vegetable; a cup of raw leafy greens; a quarter cup of dried fruit or vegetable; or 6 oz. of a fruit or vegetable drink.
Fiber
Whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds are among the high-fiber foods that reduce the risk of prostate problems.
Fiber attaches to toxic and carcinogenic materials, allowing them to be eliminated from the body. Good high-fiber breads should have at least 3 g of fiber per slice, and daily fiber consumption should aim for 25 g to 35 g.
Dinner Fluids Can Influence Prostate Health
Water is key to a healthy diet’s influence on the prostate gland.
Water transports nutrients and waste, enhances chemical reactions, and regulates body temperature and blood volume.
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is especially important for those on a high-fiber diet, because failing to do so can sometimes lead to intestinal problems.
Some Dinner Supplements Can Prevent Prostate Issues
In addition to healthy foods, certain nutritional supplements and treatments can further prevent prostate issues.
Vitamins A, C and E, as well as selenium, lycopene, and betacarotene reduce oxidative damage in prostate cells.
Flaxseed can inhibit tumor growth, while green tea polyphenols have been shown to block cancer-causing compounds.
Finally, saw palmetto can help reduce inflammation and the growth of malignant cells by blocking the conversion of testosterone to DHT.
Remember that most prostate disorder risks, including prostate cancer, can be controlled.
In addition to getting regular prostate screenings beginning at age 40, improving what you eat can be one of the simplest ways to help improve and maintain the health of your prostate.
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