Guide To A Healthy Prostate

If you are reading this article, you’re probably concerned about your chances (or a loved-one’s chances) of getting prostate cancer. Being diagnosed with any form of cancer is one of the most frightening and highly stressful experiences of anyone’s life. Prostate cancer, is a very serious health-risk in men, and should not be treated lightly. Yet, the encouraging news is that the disease does not have to be a death sentence, and even men with the disease (detected early) can maintain a healthy prostate by following specific recommendations.

Step One:

Nutritional Guidelines - Studies show that prostate health is largely associated with both the Japanese and Southern Mediterranean diets. The Japanese diet consists of a daily intake of green tea, soy, vegetables, and fish; while the Mediterranean diet is largely fresh fruits, vegetables, garlic, tomatoes, red wine, olive oil, and fish. Speaking of fish, fresh cold-water fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, and trout, should be consumed at least two to three times a week. Never eat fish that is fried. Instead, have it poached, baked, or lightly grilled. Other healthy foods include green tea., purple grapes, grape juice, red wine, cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower), and of course fruits. Tomatoes and tomato products such as pizza sauce, tomato paste, and ketchup are great along with olive oil; which is rich in vitamin E and antioxidants. As a note, doctors suggest also reducing animal fat in your diet. Studies show that excess fat, primarily red meat and high-fat dairy, stimulates prostate cancer to grow.

Step Two:

Lifestyle Choices - Everyday lifestyle choices may also be associated with prostate health. For example, maintaining a healthy body weight is essential, and is the most pressing concern regarding lifestyle and its connection to prostate cancer. Research studies show that obesity is linked to the development of prostate cancer. Researchers are still trying to determine the reason for this. Studies also show that obese men have higher rates of surgical complications, experience more problems with radiation treatments, and have lower survival rates than normal weight men. As mentioned in the previous section, a healthy diet is important for prostate health. So, make it a daily habit to eat healthy. Exercise regularly. A brisk walk for 30 minutes at least 3 days per week is sufficient. Studies show that regular exercise helps to maintain a healthy weight, lowers the rate of complications after surgery, improves cancer treatments, and increases the rate of survival.

Step Three:

Get Annual Prostate Screenings - The purpose of the screening is the early detection of prostate cancer. The screening consists of both a Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) and a Prostate-Specific Antigen test (PSA). Both exams must be done simultaneously in order to make accurate diagnoses. The screening needs to be performed on a yearly basis.