With aging and a host of other risk factors such as race and genetics, the chances of prostate cancer increase. Cancer begins in the prostate, a small walnut-shaped gland that produces seminal fluid. While some types of prostate cancers are slow to grow, others can progress faster. Early detection before it spreads to other organs can help treat cancer successfully. Some of the signs and symptoms of prostate cancer that show up at a later stage are trouble urinating, blood in urine or semen, bone pain, and erectile dysfunction among others.
It is important to take preventive measures to eliminate the risk of this deadly cancer. Improving food habits and including more fresh veggies and fruits in the daily diet generally reduces the possibility of this disease. Fatty fish, eggs, soya, and pumpkin seeds are the other foods that can cut the chances of getting this cancer.
“The male reproductive system includes the prostate, a little gland the size of a walnut that surrounds the urethra, which conducts urine from the bladder to the outside. Right below the bladder and in front of the rectum is where the prostate is located. As people age, the prostate becomes a concern for the majority of men. Prostate problems are less well recognized by the general public than common illnesses like diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol. It is crucial to raise public knowledge regarding men’s prostate health. A person can reduce their risk of acquiring prostate cancer by following a regular diet and engaging in 30 to 45 minutes of daily exercise,” says Rohit Shelatkar, Fitness & Nutrition Expert and VP at Vitabiotics.
To cut the risk of prostate cancer, these specific food items could significantly help.
- Beetroots
Nitrates, a naturally occurring substance that improves stamina, reduces blood pressure and safeguards the heart, are abundant in beetroots. Additionally, the root vegetable is rich in potassium, a mineral that controls blood pressure and aids in eliminating excess salt. - Pumpkin Seeds
According to studies, zinc aids in improving male fertility and reducing prostate-related issues. An optimal amount of zinc levels are necessary for normal prostate function, which is why pumpkin seeds that are rich in zinc and fiber can improve prostate health. - Berries
Berries are rich in antioxidants that help the body fight disease and inflammation. Particularly, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries are great sources and are rich in Vitamin C which helps in reducing the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) by controlling urination and swelling. - Fatty Fish
Omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to improve prostate health, are abundant in fatty fish including tuna, salmon, trout, and herring. These Fish have good fat and omega-3 fatty acids that are good to reduce inflammation. - Eggs
As men age, their muscle mass decreases. Eggs are an excellent source of protein that can help retain muscle mass. It also includes other nutrients such as vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids. This protein is also a potent source of choline, a compound that helps regulate genes that cause excess abdominal fat storage. - Soya
Soy foods showed a favorable effect in decreasing the risk of prostate cancer. The hormonal effects related to the weak estrogenic action of isoflavones have not been fully confirmed. The protective effect of soy foods could be related to the antioxidant effect or induction of apoptosis or inhibition of angiogenesis.
“Many men suffer in silence and ‘normalize’ their symptoms as an inevitable consequence of aging. They should consider regular body screening, body check-ups, quitting smoking, stopping drinking alcohol, and following a proper lifestyle will help in reducing the chances of prostate disease,” says Shelatkar.