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Prostate cancer is one of the leading cancers among men over the age of 45, however, a man can develop it at any age. A man in his 40's and 50's most likely does think about the possibility of developing prostate cancer. For a long time, prostate cancer was considered a disease of elderly men. Cross studies have shown that prostate cancer occurs equally in men of all races and countries. Prostate cancer is supposedly on the rise but this is also because the ability to find and diagnose it is better these days. With the test called the PSA test, which is a supersensitive blood test for detecting prostate cancer, it can be caught earlier and every time. The American Cancer Society estimates approximately 165,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year.
So what can men do to help prevent prostate cancer? A few things, indeed. Though research is still being done, some things believed to help, can be put into practice immediately. Basically, small dietary changes can offer significant protection. First, Vitamin C and the amino acid, Lysine, promote the formation of GST, which is something the body need to produce to help fight carcinogens(cancer causing agents). Foods high in vitamin C include all citrus fruits, broccoli, strawberries, tomatoes and potatoes. Other nutritional chemicals found in brussel sprouts, broccoli and cauliflower also increase the production of GST. Lysine can be taken as a supplement.
Soy may also help prevent prostate cancer. This chemical found in soy, has a weak estrogenic effect, so much so, that it will never and can not affect masculinity, yet it protects against prostate cancer by stimulating the male and female hormones in men. Yes, men do have the female hormone, estrogen produced in their bodies in very small amounts. Experts say that one daily serving is sufficient, perhaps four ounces of tofu or one glass of soy milk daily.
Prostate cancer in itself does not kill. It is the spreading or metastisizing of the cancer to other vital organs in the body that leads to death. Citrus pectin may also help prevent prostate cancer because it helps prevent the metastisizing of the prostate cancer. Pectin is normally an unabsorbable component of citrus fruit's fiber, but a study modified it to be water soluable thus able to be absorbed by the body. It can be taken in supplemental form.
Red meat is known by most and believed to be a contributing factor to developing prostate cancer.
Certain types of dietary fat may increase the risk of prostate cancer. In some studies, it was found that men eating large amounts of red meat and animal fat, were 80% more likely to die from prostate cancer than those who ate less or no meat.
Pollutants are linked to prostate cancer incidence and low sperm counts. Environmental estrogens found in some plastics and pesticides have already been implicated in contributing to the cause of breast and prostate cancer.
Although studies and research are still being done, there are a few things that men can do to help decrease their chances of developing prostate cancer. Start today!
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