Better eating could be the key to prostate health.
According to ongoing research, your prostate could benefit from a plant-based diet. According to research, adding more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, along with legumes, could reduce your risk of cancerous prostate as well as many other health issues.
Want to know more about food? Let’s discuss meal plans with Urologist Brad Gill MD, MS.
What does a plant-based eating plan consist of?
A diet that is plant-based is exactly what the name suggests. If the food is made from plants, it’s a good option for breakfast, dinner, or snacks.
This list does not include animal products such as beef, poultry, pork, fish, and eggs.
A vegan follows this plan of eating plant-based 100%. Most people, however, simply switch some of their food choices to plant-based foods while still eating the occasional burger and other animal-based items.
Can a vegan diet benefit the prostate?
It’s not just your prostate that benefits from eating more plant-based foods. The male reproductive system is also a part of this. Going greener with your diet has many health benefits, including lowering your risk for:
- Heart Disease.
- Hypertension (high blood-pressure)
- Diabetes.
- Digestive Disease
- Breast and colon cancers.
- Excessive Weight Gain.
“Obviously, plant based diets have many benefits for health in different areas,” says Dr. Gill. The benefit for prostate health is less obvious, but studies continue to show a possible link between avoiding certain animal-based food and lower prostate cancer risks.
It is believed that the antioxidants and antiinflammatory compounds in fruits and vegetables can help reduce your risk of prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia .
The benefits of a healthier diet for the prostate are well documented. Recent research highlights include:
- can lower your risk of dying of prostate cancer 19% by adopting a more plant-based diet. The same study also links the same eating patterns with a reduced risk of prostate cancer diagnosis.
- More plant-based food in your diet PSA testing is recommended starting at age 45 to fifty, depending on your individual risk.
- seems to be able to control prostate enlargement by focusing on eating more fish and plant-based foods (and less meat). Diet can also have a positive impact on erectile functions.
Find out more about foods which can improve prostate health.
Can animal-based food cause prostate problems?
Dr. Gill notes that the word “cause” is a bit strong, but there’s a link between eating animal products and prostate problems.
Major evidence indicates a link between meat intake and prostate cancer, and more specifically cured meats and processed meats. has also been linked to a higher risk of prostate cancer by milk consumption (despite the fact that it is known to have other health benefits).
According to Dr. Gill, despite the fact that many studies and reviews have concluded that animal-based foods and prostate health deserve attention, they are still inconclusive.
Sugar and prostate growth
Dr. Gill says that a diet high in sugar can lead to inflammation, which can cause rapid prostate enlargement. You should also limit your carbohydrate intake. Your body breaks down carbohydrates into sugar.
Dr. Gill says that if you want to protect your prostate, consider a diet low in sugar, with fewer carbohydrates. You should also eat fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.
Changing your diet for prostate health
Dr. Gill warns patients against making drastic dietary changes, such as going vegan or following a “fad” or very restrictive diet without consulting a physician.
He advises that you should consult your doctor first before embarking on a restrictive diet. There are certain nutrients that you must include in your diet for good health. You could develop other health issues if you restrict your diet.
There are some simple changes that you can make immediately to improve your overall health and prostate. Dr. Gill recommends limiting foods such as:
- Sugary drinks, juices, or teas.
- Potato chips and other junk food are examples of this.
- Fried foods
- Red meats
- Smoked meats.
- Meats that have been processed or cured.
- Too much dairy.
He says, “Maybe begin by making small changes rather than a complete overhaul.” Think about eliminating foods that you know with certainty will not be good for you. It can benefit your prostate, and much more.”
