Health Hacks – Prostate Cancer Foods

South Africa has a growing rate of Prostate Cancer, current stats show that 62 of every 100 000 men will develop prostate cancer, regardless of their population group.

Lifestyle and diet are the greatest factors that contribute towards cancer, so this is the best place to start making positive changes. Stop smoking and start cutting back on foods that lead to an increased risk of cancer will definitely be a first step, this includes limiting: unhealthy fast foods, refined foods filled with added sugars, saturated fats and certain colourants and additives, these may be dangerous on our bodies and can increase the risk for cancer.

A diet low in red meat and animal products, and high in plant-based foods such as vegetables and fruits, may help to slow down the progression of prostate cancer and reduce tumor growth. Good nutrition may also help reduce the recurrence of the disease. New studies have found that foods that assist in alkalizing the body and that are full of anti-oxidants also play a huge role in maintaining a strong body system, equipping it to overcome injury and disease.

Lycopene, a phytonutrient, found in fruits and veg, is found to be one of the best anti-oxidant in lowering the risk of Prostate cancer. Foods high in lycopene include tomatoes, guavas, watermelon, papayas, grapefruit, red bell peppers, pomegranates, asparagus and red cabbage. Most phytonutrients, like lycopene also require a good fat to increase its absorption, oils like Olive Oil or Canola oil. Our B-Well Canola oil is an excellent choice since it is also high in Omega 3, an essential fatty acid found to be one of the top foods in cancer prevention due to its anti-oxidant properties. Omega 3 rich foods include canola, walnuts, hemp seed, flax seed, salmon and eggs.

Other foods good for promoting prostate health include: Green tea, berries, cayenne peppers, other nuts like brazil and almonds, mushrooms, ginger, garlic, cruciferous veggies like broccoli and kale and spices like Turmeric.