Prostate cancer is a male-specific cancer that begins in the prostate gland. It’s a common type of cancer and one that is highly treatable when detected early on. As with any type of cancer, prevention is key.

In this article, we’ll explore what lifestyle choices matter when it comes to preventing prostate cancer.

1. Diet

The food you eat plays a massive role in your overall health, and research indicates that a healthy diet can help to reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Here are some dietary changes that you can make to reduce your risk:.

Limit red meat intake
Reduce your intake of processed foods
Eat more fruits and vegetables
Increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids

2. Exercise

In addition to diet, staying physically active is important for optimal health. Regular exercise has been shown to help protect against prostate cancer in a number of ways:.

Helps to maintain a healthy body weight
Reduces inflammation in the body
Stimulates the immune system
Reduces insulin resistance

3. Quit Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for many types of cancer, including prostate cancer. If you currently smoke, it’s important to quit as soon as possible to reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer and other serious health conditions.

4. Limit Alcohol Intake

Drinking too much alcohol can increase your risk of prostate cancer. To keep your prostate healthy, it’s best to limit alcohol intake in the following ways:.

Drink in moderation, if at all
Avoid binge drinking
Don’t drink and drive

5. Reduce Stress

Stress is a part of everyday life, but prolonged or chronic stress can have a detrimental effect on your overall health. Here are some stress-reduction techniques that can help to keep your prostate healthy:.

Meditation
Deep breathing exercises
Yoga
Regular exercise

6. Get Enough Sleep

Lack of sleep can have harmful effects on your body and mind. Studies have shown that poor sleep patterns can increase your risk of prostate cancer. To ensure optimal prostate health, aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night.

7. Get Regular Screenings

Early detection is key when it comes to prostate cancer. It’s recommended that men over the age of 50 get regular screenings to check for signs of prostate cancer. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, you may need to start screenings earlier.

8. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity is a risk factor for many types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a healthy diet can help to reduce your risk of prostate cancer and other health conditions.

9. Consider Supplementation

In addition to making lifestyle changes, you can also consider taking dietary supplements to help support prostate health. Here are some supplements that may help:.

Vitamin D
Lycopene
Zinc
Selenium

10. Stay Informed

The more you know about prostate cancer, the better equipped you are to make informed decisions about your health. Stay informed by reading up on the latest research and speaking with your healthcare provider about any concerns you may have.