The human body needs a wide spectrum of food sources to stay healthy and thrive. Choosing a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy proteins will maximize your opportunity to get the best fuels for your body. Prostate health is supported by a variety of different power foods. There are many doctor-recommended diets designed specifically to support prostate health. Here are the five essential families of food that support prostate health, based on current scientific research. Choose your favorites from these five families, and you are well on your way to providing your body fuel for optimal health and performance.
In addition to eating healthy foods to support prostate health, there are additional steps you can take to reduce your risk of prostate disease. Stretching the muscles of the pelvis will encourage blood flow to the prostate, allowing the immune system to more effectively manage infections. Prostate massage is a pleasurable activity that you and your partner can learn in the privacy of your own home with online flash video. These simple steps can support your lifelong prostate health, and be highly beneficial to your sexual health.
Selenium-Rich Foods
The mineral selenium promotes the abundance of glutathione peroxidase, an antioxidant that is being heavily researched for its role in prostate health. Selenium may also slow tumor growth by increasing immune cell activity and suppressing the development of blood vessels in cancer tumors. Enjoy selenium rich foods such as fish and shellfish, brazil nuts and garlic.
Lycopene-Rich Foods
Lycopene is a carotenoid pigment, a phytochemical that gives fruits and vegetables their vibrant colors, especially red. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant and has specific anti-cancer properties. It has been shown to be particularly crucial in preventing and fighting prostate cancer. Cooked tomatoes are your best source of lycopene, but also look for bright red foods such as berries. Eating lycopene rich foods with healthy fats, such as olive oil or avocado dramatically increases absorption rates.
Cruciferous Vegetables
All cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, beets and artichokes, contain a compound called sulforaphane. While fruits and vegetables contain vital antioxidants, the body also produces it’s own antioxidants. Eating sulforaphane activates production of these native antioxidants, powerful compounds that reduce inflammation, repair oxidative damage and remove carcinogens. Broccoli sprouts are the richest source of sulforaphane.
Polyphenols
Polyphenols are a group of antioxidants found in plants. Flavonoids are a subdivided group of polyphenols, and are found in abundance in soy, red wine, pomegranate and cranberries. Polyphenols are cancer preventing powerhouses with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Soy contains flavonoids and also plays an important role in balancing hormones, essential for lifelong prostate health.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as ginger, onions, berries, pumpkin seeds and apples are excellent support for prostate health. The anti-inflammatory bioflavonoid quercetin is being researched as a prostate power food. Beneficial compounds in flax, pumpkin seeds and berries also help regulate hormones. Also, don’t underestimate the powerful properties of flavorful herbs such as oregano, cinnamon and turmeric.
