The prostate can be defined as a gland located in the male reproductive system. Located below the bladder, the prostate can host many different diseases. Prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer in men in Türkiye and worldwide. When men find themselves facing any prostate health issue, such as prostate cancer, an enlarged prostate due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostatitis, they want to know what they can do immediately. While the best plan is to prevent prostate problems through a healthy lifestyle, the good news is that there are many natural ways a man can improve his prostate health, even if he already has symptoms or a diagnosis of a prostate problem. So, what should he eat and drink for prostate health?
What to Eat for Prostate?
Your diet can significantly impact your overall health, including your prostate. Therefore, by incorporating healthy, prostate-friendly foods into your diet, you can reduce your risk of many different prostate problems, including prostate cancer. Here are some foods you can add to your prostate-healthy diet:
Tomatoes : Some fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes, contain a powerful antioxidant called lycopene. Some research suggests that a diet rich in lycopene may help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. Lycopene may reduce cell damage and slow the production of cancer cells.
Broccoli : While the reason isn't yet clear, there are studies suggesting a link between a broccoli-rich diet and a lower risk of prostate cancer. This may be due to the fact that certain phytochemicals, such as sulforaphane, target only cancer cells, leaving normal prostate cells unaffected. While this information hasn't yet been definitively proven, some limited studies support it.
Legumes : Legumes like beans, lentils, and peanuts contain biologically active plant compounds known as phytoestrogens. Studies show that people who consume the most phytoestrogens have a 20% lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to those who consume the least.
Pumpkin Seed Oil : Besides being an incredibly versatile ingredient, pumpkin seed oil is also widely used as a cooking oil. It has a nutty flavor. Pumpkin seed oil is rich in linoleic acid, a type of omega-6 fatty acid that may be associated with improved heart health and blood sugar management. Pumpkin seed oil contains high amounts of antioxidant compounds, including polyphenols and carotenoids. So, is pumpkin seed oil good for the prostate? Studies have shown that pumpkin seed oil is particularly beneficial in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition characterized by an enlargement of the prostate gland, which can block urine flow. According to a study in 47 men with BPH, taking 320 mg of pumpkin seed oil daily for 12 months reduced symptoms of the disease, improved their quality of life, and increased urine flow. There are also studies showing that pumpkin seed oil reduces symptoms of overactive bladder.
What are the Drinks That Are Good for the Prostate?
Nutrition consists not only of food but also of beverages. Many beverages can be both beneficial and detrimental to prostate health. So, what should you drink for your prostate? Some of the beverages that can be beneficial for prostate health are listed below:
Green Tea : Green tea is one of the best beverages for prostate health. It contains powerful antioxidants. Studies show that green tea may help prevent prostate cancer and may also slow the growth of aggressive prostate cancer. Research indicates that green tea may also benefit men with BPH and prostatitis.
Hibiscus Tea : Hibiscus tea is rich in polyphenols, which have powerful anti-cancer properties. Similar to green tea, hibiscus tea may offer health benefits thanks to its compounds and antioxidant properties. A limited study suggests that hibiscus tea may help prevent the spread of prostate cancer cells as well as stomach cancer cells.
Blackberry Tea : Blackberry tea can alleviate symptoms of insomnia, headaches, depression, kidney and liver disorders, and changes in libido. It's also known as a sedative. Blackberries may also be beneficial for the prostate.
Burning Grass Tea : Some studies suggest that burning grass may help relieve symptoms of lower urinary tract disorders such as benign prostatic hyperplasia and frequent urination. Laboratory studies indicate that burning grass not only affects prostate cell growth but also exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity.
Dietary sources containing essential compounds can help maintain a healthy prostate and reduce the risk of prostate cancer. However, keep in mind that much research needs to be done to understand the link between diet and prostate health. To support prostate health, it's recommended to maintain an active lifestyle, exercise, maintain a healthy weight, and manage stress.
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Green Herbal Tea
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Sage, Mallow, 20-Pack Mixed Herbal Tea
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Mallow (Malva sylvestris)
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Nettle & Mallow
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Mallow, Sage
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Blackberry Leaves 50g
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Fireweed (Epilobium parviflorum) 20 filter bags
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026-Plant Set
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Source:
- https://hsgm.saglik.gov.tr/tr/kanser-turleri/kanser-turleri/prostat-kanseri.html (Last Access Date: 23.02.2023)
- https://prostate.org.nz/2014/12/5-steps-better-prostate-health/#:~:text=Follow a prostate-friendly diet&text=Some of the best foods,tomatoes%2C pomegranate juice and walnuts . (Last Access Date: 23.02.2023)
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/10-diet-and-exercise-tips-for-prostate-health (Last Access Date: 23.02.2023)
- https://healthmatters.nyp.org/tips-for-better-prostate-health/ (Last Access Date: 23.02.2023)
- https://www.healthline.com/health/prostate-cancer/foods-for-prostate-health#The-bottom-line (Last Access Date: 23.02.2023)
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/pumpkin-seed-oil#benefits (Last Access Date: 23.02.2023)
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hibiscus-tea-benefits#anti-cancer-effects (Last Access Date: 23.02.2023)
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/hibiscus-tea-is-it-good-for-you (Last Access Date: 23.02.2023)
- [ https://www.alivingproof.com/products/blackberry-root-tea#:~:text=Health benefits%3A,been to promote women's health](https://www.alivingproof.com/products/blackberry-root-tea#:~:text=Health benefits%3A,been to promote women's health ). (Last Access Date: 23.02.2023)
- https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-summary/willow-herb-summary-public_en.pdf (Last Access Date: 23.02.2023)
- https://plantshospital.com/blackberry-benefits/#BlackBerry-Root-Tea (Last Access Date: 23.02.2023)