Nobody likes thinking about the possibility of themselves getting cancer, but at the same time, people most certainly will never want to have to deal with the actual disease itself. Cancer is a disease which has claimed countless lives in the past, but thankfully, we are finally winning the battle against the disease. Thanks to increasing funding, as well as hugely generous charitable donations, cancer research and modern medicine has yielded countless breakthroughs against the disease. For the first time ever, cancer survival rates are higher than ever, as more people diagnosed with the disease are surviving their battle and going on to lead a healthy and happy life. However, in an ideal world, people wouldn’t even have to worry about the big C. For men, prostate cancer is sadly very common, and what’s more is the fact that it can easily be avoided or caught early with regular checkups. Whilst a prostate examination is not pleasant, it’s a damn sight more pleasant than having to deal with prostate cancer. In terms of prostate cancer prevention, numerous studies have found that certain foods can significantly reduce your risk of contracting the disease in the first place. Here then, is a detailed look at some of the best foods for optimal prostate health.
Broccoli
In terms of cancer-prevention, you simply cannot go wrong with broccoli. Broccoli is not only beneficial against prostate cancer, it is beneficial against numerous other cancers as well, which is why it is classed as a superfood. In terms of prostate health, broccoli really comes into its own. Not only is it packed full of vitamins and minerals, it also contains heaps of antioxidants, and phytonutrients with antioxidant properties. This cruciferous vegetable in particular, is enriched with a phytonutrient known as sulforaphane. Sulforaphane helps to boost the activity and efficiency of enzymes in the body responsible for detoxification processes. This means that it helps to neutralize potentially carcinogenic toxins and free radicals before they have time to do any real damage. What’s more, broccoli also contains what is known as Indole-3-carbinol, which has been proven to inhibit prostate specific antigen production, as well as suppressing the growth and regeneration of prostate cancer cells. For optimal health and wellness, broccoli should be a part of your everyday diet.
Chillies
Good news for those of you who enjoy your spicy foods, as chilli peppers are another food stuff that have been found to be very beneficial against a number of cancers, including prostate. Chillies are rich in capsaicin, which is a compound responsible for giving the chillies their trademark spicy heat. Capsaicin has been found to provide pain-relief in certain individuals, but on top of all of that, capsaicin has also been found to destroy cancerous cells, especially prostate cancer. The capsaicin has been found to affect the cells and cause them to self-destruct via a process known as apoptosis. The compound attacks the cell mitochondria and basically causes the cells to kill themselves. Best of all is the fact that it has been proven that capsaicin will not attack or affect healthy cells in the body. Chillies are also rich in vitamins and antioxidants, which also help to protect the cells against oxidative stress which could cause cellular mutations. There are also other health benefits associated with chillies, so if you can handle the burn, you now have another great reason to eat more chillies.
Pomegranates
Pomegranates aren’t just fruits that are famous due to their vibrant and juicy seeds, they also happen to be extremely healthy and beneficial as well. These delicious fruits are packed full of nutrients, including phytonutrients, including one called ellagitannin. It is this compound which has shown the most promise in regards to prostate health and function. Ellagitannin and other compounds found in pomegranates, have been scientifically proven to significantly reduce the rate in which cancerous cells in the prostate are able to grow and reproduce. Again, it is thought that this compound attacks the mitochondria of the cells and causes them to destroy themselves. However, with cancerous tumours, it also helps reduce the rate in which blood vessels feeding cancerous tumours can grow. Without nourishment, these tumours will not be able to grow, and eventually they may even die off altogether.
Pumpkin seeds
At Halloween, you know those slimy and annoying seeds that scoop out of your hollowed out pumpkin and throw in the trash, it might be a good idea to hang onto them instead. Pumpkin seeds are a very healthy snack anyways as they are full of essential minerals, including zinc, iron, and magnesium. They have also showed a great deal of promise in regards to fighting prostate cancer as well. In men with what is known as BPH, or Benign Prostate Hypertrophy, this condition has been found to cause the prostate gland to swell and become enlarged. Generally this is a problem in men aged 50 or above, though no man is exempt from being at risk. The condition causes prostate cells to become over stimulated via anabolic hormones such as testosterone. Pumpkin seeds however, contain natural compounds which have been found to help prevent prostate cells from growing and multiplying. They also contain natural oils rich in omega 3s and carotenoids, which reduce the likelihood of BPH being a risk, not to mention the other health benefits they provide.
Salmon
Salmon is one of the healthiest foods in the world, and if you’re a fan of this oily fish, you’re most certainly in luck. For prostate health, omega 3 fatty acids like those found in salmon are hugely important. These fatty acids help to slow down the growth of cancerous tumours on the prostate, plus they can hinder the development. Not only that, but they can also help to prevent the disease so whether you have the disease or not, salmon should still be consumed regularly.
