Foods to Avoid for Prostate Cancer
Studies show that one in 7 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. While prostate cancer iis not always a death sentence, it is essential to reduce your risk of developing the disease by making healthy lifestyle and dietary choices. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, doctors recommend avoiding certain foods that have been linked to this disease. By making simple diet changes, and avoiding these foods, you can help keep your prostate healthy and lower your cancer risk:
1. Red meat
Red meat contains high levels of saturated fat, which has been linked with an increased risk of prostate cancer. Processed meats such as bacon and sausage, and well done grilled red meats, like steak and hamburgers, are also high in saturated fat and should be avoided. Limit your intake to no more than three servings per week.
2. Alcohol
Alcohol of all types increases the risk of prostate cancer by affecting the way the body metabolizes testosterone. This can lead to an increase in testosterone in the blood, linked with an increased risk of prostate cancer. Limit your intake to avoid developing prostate cancer, although avoiding it altogether is best.
3. High fat dairy
Dairy products, especially whole milk, also contain high levels of saturated fat. Studies show that men that consume most dairy products have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer. This includes milk, cheese, and yogurt. If you eat dairy products, it is important to choose low-fat or fat-free options.
4. Cured and processed deli meats
Cured and processed meats are often high in saturated fat and sodium, contributing to cancer development. These meats include ham, bacon, and sausage. Avoiding these meats altogether or limiting your intake to a few servings per week is best. For safe alternatives, look to canned tuna or salmon, and lean all-natural turkey and chicken cold cuts.
5. Fatty fast foods
Fast foods are high in saturated fats, chemicals, and sodium, increasing the risk of prostate cancer. If you eat fast food, such as burgers, pizza, and fries, it is essential to choose healthier options, such as grilled chicken or fish. Limit your intake of French fries and other fried foods.
Making simple changes to your diet can help reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer. By avoiding these foods, lower your risk of prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is a severe disease that affects the prostate gland in the male reproductive system. The prostate is located below the bladder just in front of the rectum. It surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.
Prostate cancer usually develops slowly and usually occurs in men over 50. It is initially confined to the prostate gland, where it may not cause any symptoms. However, as cancer grows, it can spread outside the prostate and invade other tissues and organs. When this happens, it can cause several different symptoms, such as:
- Bone pain
- Trouble urinating
- Decreased force in the stream of urine
- Blood in the urine or semen
- Frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Erectile dysfunction
Considerable lifestyle choices can help reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer. Some of these include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a healthy diet made up of plant-based fruit and veggies
- Limiting your intake of saturated fats and meat processed meats
- Limiting your alcohol intake
- Not smoking