Prostate cancer is the second most common type of cancer among men worldwide, after lung cancer. It is a disease that affects the prostate gland, which is a small walnut-shaped gland in men that produces seminal fluid.
The cancer develops when cells in the prostate gland start growing uncontrollably. While there is no surefire way to prevent prostate cancer, studies have shown that certain lifestyle habits can lower the risk of developing the disease.
One such habit is drinking a specific beverage that has been found to have cancer-fighting properties. Here, we introduce you to the prostate cancer-fighting drink and discuss how it can benefit your health.
What is the prostate cancer-fighting drink?
The prostate cancer-fighting drink is a beverage made from pomegranate juice and green tea. Both pomegranate and green tea have been shown to have anti-cancer properties, and when combined, their benefits are increased.
The anti-cancer properties of pomegranate juice
The pomegranate is a fruit that is packed with antioxidants, compounds that protect the body from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals.
Pomegranates are especially high in polyphenols, a type of antioxidant that has been shown to have anti-cancer properties. In particular, pomegranates contain a polyphenol called ellagitannin, which has been found to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Studies have shown that drinking pomegranate juice can lower the risk of developing prostate cancer.
In one study, men who drank 8 ounces of pomegranate juice per day had a slower rate of rising prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, which is a marker for prostate cancer. Another study found that pomegranate juice can slow the growth and spread of prostate cancer cells in mice.
The anti-cancer properties of green tea
Green tea is a beverage that has been consumed for centuries, and its health benefits are well documented. Green tea contains compounds called catechins, which are antioxidants that have been shown to have anti-cancer properties.
One catechin in particular, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), has been found to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Studies have shown that drinking green tea can lower the risk of developing prostate cancer. In one study, men who drank the most green tea had a 48% lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to those who drank less green tea.
Another study found that green tea can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells and even induce cancer cell death.
The benefits of combining pomegranate juice and green tea
When pomegranate juice and green tea are combined, their anti-cancer properties are increased. In a study conducted at the University of California, researchers gave men with prostate cancer a combination of pomegranate and green tea extracts.
The researchers found that the combination of the two extracts slowed the increase of PSA levels in the men, indicating that the cancer was not progressing as quickly.
Another study found that a combination of pomegranate juice and green tea extract can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells by up to 70%.
The study also found that the combination can improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs used to treat prostate cancer.
How to make the prostate cancer-fighting drink
Making the prostate cancer-fighting drink is simple and requires only two ingredients: pomegranate juice and green tea. Here’s how to make it:.
- Brew a cup of green tea using a tea bag or loose tea leaves.
- Let the tea cool to room temperature.
- Mix 8 ounces of pomegranate juice with the cooled green tea.
- Enjoy!
Conclusion
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent prostate cancer, making lifestyle changes such as changing your diet can help reduce your risk.
Drinking the prostate cancer-fighting drink, made from pomegranate juice and green tea, is a simple and delicious way to protect your health. Both pomegranate and green tea have been shown to have anti-cancer properties, and when combined, they can improve their effectiveness. Try making the prostate cancer-fighting drink a regular part of your diet to reap its benefits.