When it comes to prostate health, what you eat can make a difference. While no single food directly causes prostate issues, certain dietary patterns may increase inflammation or testosterone levels that could contribute to prostate problems over time. With that, here are 10 foods that you must limit to support a healthier prostate.
10. Red Meat
Red Meat, especially if well-done or grilled, produces heterocyclic amines (HCAs), which are linked to several cancers. HCAs are chemicals formed when Red Meat is cooked at high temperatures. Even the World Health Organization supports the findings that red meat, such as beef or pork, and even processed ones, are linked to a higher risk of prostate cancer. Instead, try meat with protein sources like lean poultry or fish (both fresh and canned).
TrendingNow
9. High-Fat Dairy
Do you love ice cream? Too bad, it is a form of High-Fat Dairy, which increases your risk of developing prostate cancer. According to research published in the Journal of Nutrition, whole milk increases the risk of fatal prostate cancer, while skim and low-fat milks increase the risk of low-grade diseases. With this, you should reduce whole and full-fat dairy intake and switch to dairy alternatives like soy or almond milk.
8. Foods with Saturated Fats
While Saturated Fats are known to be dangerous for heart health, some studies also link them to advanced prostate cancer. While more studies are needed to confirm the findings, limiting their intake is the best prevention. The common sources of saturated fats are full-fat dairy, salad dressings, and baked goods. You can replace saturated fats with monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats like fatty fish, avocado, and olive oil.
7. Fried Foods
Love fast food? Too bad, daily consumption of many fried menu items increases the risk of prostate cancer. Multiple studies found that people who eat fried foods often than those who do not have a 35% increased rate of prostate cancer. Why? That’s the saturated fat that is found in many fried dishes. However, not all fats are bad, like polyunsaturated fats that improve prostate health and omega-3, which reduces prostate tumor growth.
6. Sodium
Sodium found in your food plays an indirect role when it comes to issues about an enlarged prostate. High sodium levels in food can cause water retention, which may be linked to issues of frequent urination and bladder discomfort. Most sodium in our diets can be found in canned soups, processed food, and salty snacks.
5. Caffeine
It’s time to rethink that morning cup of coffee, as Caffeine is a trigger to prostate issues. Why? It’s a natural diuretic that can increase the production of urine and worsen symptoms of urination in Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. Instead, opt for caffeine-free alternatives or limit them, especially in the evening, to better manage your urinary symptoms.
4. Artificial Sweeteners
It’s time to take a look at the ingredients of the food products you consume. While low-calorie Artificial Sweeteners can limit the development of sugar intake conditions such as diabetes and obesity, they can worsen Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia by aggravating your bladder. Also, it increases your risk of developing bladder cancer.
3. Spicy Foods
Love spicy food? Think again, as Spicy Foods are a trigger to an enlarged prostate. It irritates the bladder and prostate by bringing in urinary symptoms that can be attributed to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. If you’re a fan of Spicy Foods, you don’t need to run away from them; just control the levels, or better yet, add herbs for that extra spice kick.
2. Refined Carbohydrates
We encounter Refined Carbohydrates daily through pastries and pasta, which is honestly hard to avoid. However, these foods have been stripped of their natural fiber and nutrients, which harms prostate health when consumed daily. How? Through testosterone imbalance and inflammation, which promote enlargement, cancer, and even chronic diseases in terms of prostate problems. It’s better to opt for fiber-rich foods and select whole grains like oats and quinoa.
1. Trans Fats
Another fatty food component to watch out for and limit is Trans Fat. They’re found in fast food fried menu items and hydrogenated oils used in pastries. When consumed daily, Trans Fat may possibly cause chronic inflammation linked to cellular damage and oxidative stress that contributes to prostate issues. It also raises bad cholesterol for the heart, which damages the organs. Make sure to read labels carefully and choose healthier cooking oils like olive or avocado oil.
Discussion about this post