6 Superfoods For Prostate Health

The subject of Prostate Cancer used to be a taboo subject. Fortunately men aren’t shy at discussing this subject any longer and are taking their health more seriously. Many events are promoted to raise money for Prostate Health Awareness. The most recent and popular event is called Movember where men grow facial hair for charity.

The prostate is a walnut sized gland located under the bladder and in front of the rectum. Prostate Cancer is one of the most common forms of Cancer in men with 1 in 7 being affected. 

Those at greatest risk are African American males, however, no man is exempt. Family history of the disease is a marker along with increased age, poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle.

Symptoms to be aware of include:

• Frequent night time urination (this doesn’t always signify Cancer but is something to investigate with your Doctor). This simply could be a symptom of BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) which is an enlargement of the prostate gland however, it is also not to be ignored
• Difficulty in starting & stopping urination
• Weak or interrupted urine stream
• Painful or burning sensation when urinating
• Blood in the urine

There are tests that men can take to detect early prostate cancer – one being a PSA blood test, the other is a digital rectal exam. All men over the age of 50 should at least do the PSA when they get their annual checkups.

To make sure you aren’t the 1 in 7, follow these tips for prostate health:

• Reduce consumption of red meat & high fat dairy – increase fruits & vegetables and reduce animal products. An excess of animal products increases male hormones and creates acidity in the body which can contribute to Cancer
• Remove or greatly reduce processed foods, especially processed meats, breads, pastries etc.
• Reduce alcohol & caffeine consumption to not more than 1/day
• Take a male glandular formula supplement containing zinc & saw palmetto, vitamin E, C, B, glutamic acid as they all work synergistically to maintain prostate health
• Consume soy based foods as soy inhibits the enzyme responsible for tissue enlargement. Soy foods are edamame, tempeh, tofu, soy nuts, miso and soymilk.
• Foods high in zinc such as mushrooms, pumpkin seeds, seafood, spinach, and sunflower seeds nourishes the prostate gland and is vital for proper immune function.

Consume these 6 Superfoods:

• Berries – they are high in antioxidants which prevent free radical cell damage which contributes to Cancer – eat them raw, put them in salads, oatmeal, yogurt or smoothies
• Nuts – fibre and omega fats
• Beans – add to salads and replace as a meat protein, high in omega fats to help reduce inflammation, good source of fibre
• Green Tea – in addition to prostate health, research shows it can also help to reduce cholesterol and improve memory function
• Flaxseeds – essential fatty acids which promote prostate health
• Take a good quality fish oil supplement with EHA & DPA – this helps to reduce inflammation in the body. Alternatively, consuming salmon, mackerel, sardines or herring are good sources of omega fatty acids that help lower the risk of Cancer.

Fortunately for those who do find themselves dealing with Prostate Cancer there are treatments available both in conventional and alternative medicine that yields effective results. Early detection is key!