Prostate cancer is a disease that affects the prostate gland, a vital component of the male reproductive system. It is the second most common type of cancer among men, and it can be aggressive.
Unfortunately, we now know that certain foods can contribute to the development and progression of aggressive prostate cancer. In this article, we will outline ten foods that you should avoid or consume in moderation to reduce your risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer.
Red and Processed Meats
Red and processed meats have been linked to various health problems, including several types of cancer. Consumption of red and processed meats has been associated with an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer.
According to a study of over 900 men, those who consumed more than 2.5 servings of processed meat a week had a 2.5 times greater risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer than those who consumed less than 1.5 servings per week.
High-fat Dairy Products
Dairy products are known to be rich in calcium, which is an essential nutrient for bone health. However, high consumption of dairy products has also been associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer.
One study found that men who consumed high amounts of whole milk, cheese, and other high-fat dairy products had a greater risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer than those who consumed low-fat dairy or no dairy at all.
Sugar-sweetened Beverages
Sugar-sweetened beverages such as soda, energy drinks, and sports drinks are high in sugar and calories and have been linked to an increased risk of obesity and diabetes.
In addition to these health problems, these types of beverages may also contribute to the progression of aggressive prostate cancer. In a study of over 8,000 men with prostate cancer, those who consumed more than one sugar-sweetened beverage per day had a greater risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer than those who did not consume these types of beverages.
Fried Foods
Fried foods are popular in many cultures and are often consumed as a snack or a component of a meal. However, these foods have been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including prostate cancer.
In a study of men with prostate cancer, those who consumed more fried foods had a greater risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer than those who consumed fewer fried foods.
Alcohol
Alcohol consumption can affect many aspects of health, including the risk of several types of cancer. There is evidence that suggests that alcohol consumption can increase the risk of aggressive prostate cancer.
According to one study, men who drank more than three drinks a day had a greater risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer than those who did not drink alcohol.
Saturated and Trans Fats
Saturated and trans fats are types of dietary fat that have been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including prostate cancer. A diet rich in these types of fats can contribute to the progression of aggressive prostate cancer.
In a study of more than 3,400 men with prostate cancer, those who consumed a diet high in saturated and trans fats had a greater risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer than those who consumed a diet low in these fats.
Salted Foods
High-sodium diets have been linked to increased risks of various kinds of cancer, including prostate cancer.
A study of over 13,000 men found that those who consumed high amounts of salt or sodium had a greater risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer than those who consumed lower amounts.
Low-fiber Foods
Dietary fiber is an essential nutrient that plays an important role in maintaining digestive health and reducing the risk of several types of cancer, including prostate cancer.
According to one study, men who consumed low amounts of dietary fiber had a greater risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer than those who consumed high amounts. Foods that are low in dietary fiber include white bread, white rice, and pasta.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant that is found in coffee, tea, and various other beverages. While moderate caffeine consumption is generally considered safe, excessive consumption has been associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer.
In a study of over 45,000 men, those who consumed more than six cups of coffee per day had a greater risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer than those who consumed less than three cups per day.
Low-Fruit and Vegetable Diets
Fruits and vegetables are important sources of essential vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health and reducing the risk of several types of cancer, including prostate cancer.
According to one study, men who consumed low amounts of fruits and vegetables had a greater risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer than those who consumed high amounts.
Conclusion
Aggressive prostate cancer is an important health issue, and some foods can contribute to its development or progression. While dietary changes are not a cure for prostate cancer, making healthy dietary choices can help reduce your risk.
By avoiding or limiting high-fat dairy, red and processed meats, sugar-sweetened beverages, fried foods, alcohol, saturated and trans fats, salted foods, low-fiber foods, caffeine, and low-fruits and vegetable diet, you can improve your overall health and reduce your risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer.