The prostate gland is a small but important part of the male reproductive system. It is a walnut-shaped gland that is located right under the bladder and surrounds the urethra.
The prostate gland produces fluid that helps to nourish and protect the sperm as it travels through the urethra during ejaculation. Unfortunately, prostate cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer among men. In fact, one in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime.
Here are 7 steps that you can take to keep your prostate healthy and prevent prostate cancer.
1. Eat a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet can help to reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer. Foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help to reduce inflammation in your body.
Inflammation can damage your DNA, which can lead to cancer. You should also eat foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, flaxseed, and walnuts. Omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce inflammation and may help to prevent prostate cancer.
2. Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise can help to keep your prostate healthy. Physical activity can help to reduce inflammation in your body, which can help to prevent cancer.
Exercise can also help to reduce the amount of body fat that you carry, which can reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer. Aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. You can do anything from walking to running, swimming, or biking.
3. Don’t Smoke or Use Tobacco Products
There is a strong link between smoking and prostate cancer. Research has shown that smokers are more likely to develop prostate cancer than non-smokers. Smoking can damage your DNA, which can lead to cancer.
Smoking can also increase inflammation in your body, which can further increase your risk of developing prostate cancer. If you smoke or use tobacco products, quitting now can help to reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer.
4. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of developing prostate cancer. Carrying excess body fat can increase your levels of insulin and other hormones, which can encourage the growth of cancer cells.
If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help to reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer. Aim to maintain a healthy weight by eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.
5. Get Regular Medical Exams
Regular medical exams can help to detect prostate cancer early. The earlier prostate cancer is detected, the higher the chances of successful treatment.
It is important to talk to your doctor about your risk of developing prostate cancer and to schedule regular prostate exams, especially if you are over the age of 50. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, your doctor may recommend that you start getting regular exams at a younger age.
6. Limit Your Alcohol Consumption
Heavy alcohol consumption can increase your risk of developing prostate cancer. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. The American Cancer Society defines moderate drinking as no more than two drinks a day for men.
7. Manage Your Stress
High levels of stress can increase your risk of developing cancer. When you are stressed, your body produces stress hormones that can damage your DNA and increase inflammation in your body.
There are many different ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
Conclusion
By following these 7 steps, you can reduce your risk of developing prostate cancer and keep your prostate healthy.
Remember to eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, don’t smoke or use tobacco products, maintain a healthy weight, get regular medical exams, limit your alcohol consumption, and manage your stress.