By Dr. David Samadi
A major health concern among men worldwide is prostate cancer. This disease ranks as the 4th most common cancer worldwide and is the 2nd most common cancer in men.
Research continues to discover what factors appear to influence a man’s likelihood of being diagnosed with prostate cancer. The more we understand what contributes to this disease and what lifestyle strategies are helpful in significantly reducing men’s risk for prostate cancer.
One lifestyle behavior we engage in daily is choosing what foods we eat. Our diet plays a major role in promoting and keeping us healthy, and research has shown promise in maintaining cancer-free men.
Before we discuss smart nutritional strategy approaches to preventing prostate cancer, let’s review the risk for it:
Several risk factors are involved that may increase the likelihood of prostate cancer:
- Family History: Individuals with a family history of prostate cancer are at higher risk.
- Dietary Factors: A diet high in processed meats such as bacon, luncheon meat, hot dogs, and sausage, along with high-fat dairy products, has been associated with increased prostate cancer risk.
- Obesity: Men who are overweight or obese carrying excess body fat have an increased tendency to develop aggressive forms of prostate cancer.
- Age: Prostate cancer risk rises sharply after the age of 50, with a majority of cases occurring in men over 65.
- Ethnicity: Men from specific racial backgrounds – especially African American men – have a stronger risk of developing prostate cancer compared to others.
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of prostate cancer may include lower back pain, difficulty urinating, and erectile dysfunction. Elevated levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) often indicate prostate cancer and can be detected through routine medical screenings.
Nutritional Remedies for Prevention
Research indicates several natural and nutritional compounds and lifestyle practices that may help lower the risk of prostate cancer:
- Lycopene: The antioxidant lycopene, found in foods like tomatoes and watermelon, promises to lower prostate cancer risk. It is recommended that lycopene be obtained through dietary sources rather than supplements, as the latter’s effectiveness is not well-established.
- Vitamin D: Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels is crucial, as it may protect against aggressive forms of prostate cancer. Obtaining sufficient vitamin D can be challenging since it is best absorbed solely through sunlight and diet. Therefore, supplements are often recommended.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Some of the very best sources of this fat are salmon and mackerel. Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties which help lower the risk of men developing aggressive prostate cancer.
- Green Tea: Green tea consumption has been associated with a decreased risk of advanced prostate cancer, likely due to its antioxidant properties.
Additional Preventive Strategies
Incorporating these strategies into daily life can further reduce the risk of prostate cancer:
- Healthy Diet: Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limit red meat and high-fat dairy products.
- Moderate Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol should be limited to two or fewer daily drinks, if at all.
- Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.
- Routine Health Check-ups: Regular visits to healthcare providers for prostate health monitoring and appropriate screenings are essential.
Conclusion
While nutritional remedies and lifestyle changes can support prostate cancer prevention, it is crucial to consult healthcare providers before starting any supplements. Adopting these healthy practices into your daily routine can help improve overall well-being and may potentially reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. Early detection through screenings and proactive management are crucial to improving outcomes for individuals with heightened risk factors.
Taking proactive steps towards prostate health is vital for long-term wellness and quality of life.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.