The Role of Diet in Lowering Prostate Cancer Risk | Max Hospital

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Prostate Cancer Risks & Prevention: Essential Lifestyle and Diet Tips

By Dr. Tushar Aditya Narain in Surgical Oncology , Urology , Cancer Care / Oncology , Uro-Oncology , Robotic Surgery

Jun 13 , 2024 | 3 min read

Prostate cancer is a health concern for men worldwide, but the good news is that lifestyle and dietary changes are available; these help reduce the risk of developing this disease, just like all other cancers. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer, adopting a healthy lifestyle and making informed dietary choices can play an important role in maintaining good prostate health. In this blog, we'll explore some of these changes and their potential impact.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity increases chances of prostate cancer. Excess body fat, like that around the waistline, can lead to hormonal imbalances and inflammation, potentially contributing to the development of cancer. To reduce your risk, maintain a healthy weight through a mix of a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

Eat a Plant-Based Diet: A diet rich in fruits, nuts, vegetables, and whole grains helps lower the chances of prostate cancer. They are packed with antioxidants, minerals, minerals, and fiber, which can have a protective effect against cancer. Try to fill your plate with colorful produce to ensure a broad range of nutrients. This does not mean that you should completely give up animal proteins.

Include Tomatoes and Lycopene-Rich Foods: Tomatoes are known for their high lycopene content. It is an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of prostate cancer. Cooked tomatoes, such as tomato sauce or tomato-based soups, are particularly beneficial as cooking increases lycopene absorption. Watermelon, pink grapefruit, and guava are other sources of lycopene.

Choose Healthy Fats: Choose healthy fats like those found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish (e.g., salmon, mackerel, and sardines). These fats provide essential nutrients and may help reduce inflammation and lower prostate cancer risk. Limit and try to avoid saturated and trans fats found in fried and processed foods.

Limit Red and Processed Meats: High consumption of red and processed meats, such as beef, pork, and bacon, has been associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer. Try to limit red meat consumption and consider leaner sources like poultry, fish, and plant-based proteins such as beans and lentils.

Increase Omega-3 Fatty Acid Consumption: Omega-3 fatty acids, found commonly in fatty fish like salmon and walnuts, have anti-inflammatory properties and may play a protective role against prostate cancer. Incorporate these foods into your diet as part of a balanced and varied meal plan.

Stay Hydrated with Green Tea: Green tea is known for its high antioxidant content, particularly catechins. Some studies suggest drinking green tea regularly could reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Plus, staying hydrated is essential for general health.

Practice Portion Control: Overeating and obesity are risk factors for several cancers, including prostate cancer. Pay attention to portion sizes, and try eating mindfully. Eating slowly and savoring your food can help you recognize when you're full and prevent overconsumption.

Stay Active: Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces chances of prostate cancer. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling.

Manage Stress: Chronic stress weakens the immune system and contributes to inflammation, potentially increasing cancer risk. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or mindfulness into your daily routine. A healthy body can only reside with a healthy mind.

While lifestyle and dietary changes alone cannot guarantee the prevention of prostate cancer, they can significantly reduce your risk and contribute to overall well-being. It's essential to adopt these changes as part of a holistic approach to health with regular medical check-ups and screenings, especially if prostate cancer runs in your family. Making informed choices about your lifestyle and diet can empower you to take control of your prostate health and reduce your risk of this common disease.