Ongoing research suggests that a plant-based diet can reduce men's risk of prostate cancer, according to experts from the Cleveland Clinic Health System.

Benefits of plant-based diets

Urologist Dr. Bradley Gale said that the benefits of plant-based diets have become known in various health areas, and although their impact on prostate health is less clear, recent research shows a possible link between a reduced risk of prostate cancer and avoidance of certain diseases. animal food.

Dr. Gale explained that there is a growing belief that antioxidants and natural anti-inflammatory compounds, which are contained in fruits and vegetables, reduce the risks of prostate cancer and BPH.

Dr. Gale cited three recent studies that showed the benefits of a plant-based diet for men.

A study published this year in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that adopting a plant-based diet may reduce a man's risk of dying from prostate cancer by 19%.

The same study linked this eating pattern to a lower risk of prostate cancer as well.

Another study, published in Urology in October last year, found that including more plant foods in the diet reduces the chances of high levels of prostate-specific antigen, whose elevated levels may indicate prostate cancer.

That is why it is recommended that tests for this antigen be performed annually starting from the age of between 45 and 50 years, depending on the extent of the individual's risk.

Vegetarian foods and fish

A third study, published in the journal Nutrients last November, showed that eating patterns that focus on more plant foods and fish, and less red meat, appear to help keep an enlarged prostate under control.

Dr Gale


said


But the urologist pointed out that these studies do not necessarily mean that eating animal foods directly causes prostate problems, but rather indicate a possible link between eating animal foods and prostate problems.

meat

Major evidence points to an association between meat consumption and prostate cancer, particularly processed and processed meat and red meat.

Milk consumption has also been linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer, despite the animal product's well-known benefits.

While the evidence regarding animal foods and their relationship to prostate health deserves attention, it remains inconclusive, according to Dr. Gale, who said other nutritional factors should also be taken into account.

He added: Diets containing a high percentage of sugar can cause infections that may lead to a rapid enlargement of the prostate, so it is also recommended to limit the intake of carbohydrates that are converted in the body to sugar.

The expert from the Cleveland Clinic called for attention to prostate health, by thinking about a diet low in sugar, and sticking to good, clean and healthy foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, in addition to nuts and whole grains.

Recommended Dietary Changes for Prostate Health

Dr. Gale cautions against making drastic changes to your diet, such as following an entirely strict diet or following a highly restrictive diet, without consulting your health care provider.

He said that there are essential nutrients that one needs in their diet in order to maintain good health, and if they narrow the diet too much, they may end up suffering from other health problems due to nutrient deficiencies.


But he


explained that there are simple changes in the diet a man can make immediately to benefit the prostate and his overall health.

Dr. Gale suggests minimizing:

  • Sugar-sweetened beverages, whether soda, juice, or tea.

  • Fast food like potato chips.

  • Fried foods.

  • Red meat.

  • smoked meat;

  • Processed meat.

"You should start making small changes first, rather than jumping to radical reform," he said.

One should consider eliminating foods that they clearly know are not good, and this can help the prostate and support its overall health.