Diet is one of the most important things to manage when living with prostate cancer.
Why, you ask? Well, many studies have shown a link between a Western diet high in red meat consumption and a greater risk of prostate cancer when compared to plant-based diets.
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Also, the American Cancer Society recommends that cancer patients watch their diets because cancer treatments can destroy healthy cells. So, the body needs extra nutrition from your diet to repair the body to continue fighting off the disease.
Here are some suggestions when it comes to managing your diet with prostate cancer:
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Traditional Japanese or Mediterranean diets
These diets are known for being low in red meat consumption. Instead of red meats, these meals are replaced with fish. Additional components of these two diets include fruits, vegetables and healthy fats.
A traditional Japanese diet includes vegetables and soybeans as side dishes, rice as the staple and fish. According to an NBC News report, because of this diet, Japanese people tend to live longer and healthier lives than anyone else on this planet.
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Elements of a traditional Mediterranean diet from countries like Greece, Portugal and Israel include grains, vegetables and fruits during most meals. These dishes use nuts, legumes, healthy grains and fish, as well.
Butter is usually replaced with olive oil, and salt is replaced with herbs and spices for flavor. There is a small amount of meat and dairy used in these meals.
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Other recommended foods
Don’t be afraid to add plenty of vegetables to your plate. But these particular vegetables are helpful in fighting prostate cancer, experts say. These include broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower.
Also add berries, watermelon, green tea, freshly ground flax seeds and tomatoes to your diet to fight back against the disease.
Foods to avoid
Red meat is no good when battling prostate cancer. Why? Because raised meat is typically fed grains and chemicals, which can be bad for your body while undergoing cancer treatment.
Also, try to stay away from grilling meat to the point of charring. Toxic carcinogens released during grilling could contribute to the risk of cancer, according to the American Institute for Cancer Research.
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Try broiling, steaming or poaching your meat. Leave out as much sugar as possible.
Studies show that cancer cells thrive off sugar, which can promote tumor growth.
As with any change in your diet or cancer management plan, be sure to speak with your physician to make sure your changes line up with your cancer treatment.
