Food is, in some cases, a significant factor when it comes to our health. As we know, eating a healthy, balanced and varied diet can greatly help us to avoid certain problems. For men, certain foods are very good for a healthy prostate.
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How to protect your prostate?
Of course, eating well is not the only way to avoid prostate problems. In addition to a good quality diet, you should limit your meat consumption, exercise regularly and keep a close eye on your prostate gland.
This is especially true for men over the age of sixty, who should have their prostate checked at least once a year by a doctor for lumps. During the rectal examination, the doctor will be able to tell you whether this exocrine gland is still flexible, and whether it is still the same size. He will also check that there are no irregularities in the contours of the gland.
Fruit, the best ally for a healthy prostate
Between 2005 and 2012, a team of researchers based in Montreal at the Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS) conducted a study on 4000 men. Among other things, they checked their eating habits. Thanks to the responses of the respondents, they were able to define three groups of diets: a 'Western' diet based on the consumption of pasta and pizza, sweet desserts and soft drinks, and another, also known as the 'Western' diet, which is much saltier, based on meats and alcohol such as wine or beer.
Finally, a last category stood out: the one based on fruit, vegetables and plant proteins. Unsurprisingly, it is this last category that reduces the risk of prostate cancer. Doctoral student Karine Trudeau, who participated in the study, explained:
A lifestyle rich in fruit and vegetables, tofu, yoghurt, nuts, was associated with a reduced risk of prostate cancer. This was a reassuring result, it is in line with several other studies, it was consistent with the recommendations of the World Health Organisation which says that a high consumption of fruit and vegetables reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, etc.
Foods for a healthy prostate
- Legumes
The isoflavones present in legumes such as lentils, beans and peanuts help prevent the risk of cancer.
- Pomegranate
Like tomatoes, pomegranates contain antioxidants. This molecule slows down the growth of cancer cells and is therefore useful in preventing prostate cancer.
- Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain lycopene. It is a powerful antioxidant that reduces the production of cancer cells.
- Broccoli
The sulforaphane present in this vegetable has aroused the interest of many researchers for its virtues in the prevention and treatment of prostate cancer.
- Green tea
According to a study, green tea counteracts actin, one of the proteins that could be responsible for the multiplication of cancer cells in the prostate.
