Good Tips for Prostate Health
Prostate cancer is a major concern for men over the age of 40. Some men are more prone to developing prostate cancer, through genetics, race and age. However, you can also slash your risk of developing prostate cancer or other prostate diseases through lifestyle choices that keep your prostate in good health. Following a healthy lifestyle with proper diet and sufficient exercise can help to keep your prostate in tip-top shape and keep your chances of developing prostate cancer down.
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Diet
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The diet that you choose will have a large bearing on how susceptible you are to having problems with your prostate. The Prostate Cancer Foundation notes that a diet that is high in fat can cause the body to produce less antioxidants, which are essential to keeping a healthy prostate and warding off disease. As such, you should concentrate on a diet that includes plenty of lean protein from sources like chicken and fish. Stay away from fried foods, and substitute instead raw foods, such as leafy greens, and healthy, antioxidant rich fruits such as cranberries and blueberries. Lycopene has also been shown to increase antioxidant production in the prostate, so look for tomato-based products to increase your intake. Other foods to avoid include those that are grilled or charred. The carcinogens that are found in charred food can inflame the prostate, causing more problems.
Exercise
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Making sure that you have a daily exercise routine of at least 30 minutes of physical activity can drastically reduce your risk for prostate diseases 10 percent to 30 percent. Physical activity can help stabilize hormone levels, which when uncontrolled can lead to prostate cancer. Similarly, as there is a clear link between obesity and prostate diseases, daily exercise helps to keep men fit and their risk of prostate diseases down. Strive for 30 minutes of exercise daily, making sure to get your heart rate up for the best benefits.
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Screening
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If you are over the age of 40, you should be speaking to your doctor about screening for prostate cancer soon. While most men who are diagnosed with prostate diseases are over 50, you'll need to start screening to look for warning signs before that time. A screening tests looks for lifestyle, habits and genetic predispositions to prostate diseases, along with testing for abnormal tissue. The earlier you begin screening, the better chance you have at fighting the disease when it is found, sooner rather than later. Screenings should be done yearly or as recommended by your doctor.
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