Prostate cancer is a common type of cancer among men. Like all types of cancer, it is caused by multiple factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

Nutrition is one of the factors that play an important role in the development of prostate cancer.

Nutrients that May Contribute to Prostate Cancer Development

Prostate cancer researchers have identified several nutritional factors that may contribute to prostate cancer development. Some of these factors include:.

Saturated Fat

Saturated fat is known to increase cholesterol levels in the body, and studies have shown that men who consume a diet high in saturated fat have an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.

Saturated fats are found in high fat dairy products, red meat, and processed foods.

Red and Processed Meat

Some studies have shown that high intakes of red meat and processed meat are associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer. This may be due to the high levels of saturated fat and/or carcinogens found in these meats.

Calcium

Calcium is an essential nutrient for bone health, but some studies suggest that high intakes of calcium may increase the risk of prostate cancer.

It is not clear whether this is due to the calcium itself or due to the fact that many high calcium foods also contain high levels of fat.

Sugar

There is some evidence to suggest that high sugar intakes may increase the risk of prostate cancer.

This may be due to the fact that sugar intake can lead to insulin resistance and inflammation in the body, both of which may contribute to cancer development.

Nutrients that May Decrease the Risk of Prostate Cancer

While some nutrients may contribute to the development of prostate cancer, others may help to decrease the risk. Some of these nutrients include:.

Lycopene

Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes, watermelon, guava, and other red fruits and vegetables. Some studies suggest that high intakes of lycopene may decrease the risk of prostate cancer.

Selenium

Selenium is a mineral that is important for immune function and antioxidant activity. Some studies suggest that high intakes of selenium may decrease the risk of prostate cancer. Selenium-rich foods include Brazil nuts, fish, and whole grains.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is important for bone health and immune function, and some studies suggest that it may also decrease the risk of prostate cancer. Vitamin D can be found in fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy products.

The body can also produce vitamin D when the skin is exposed to sunlight.

Fiber

Fiber is important for digestive health, and some studies suggest that high intakes of fiber may decrease the risk of prostate cancer. Fiber-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.

The Bottom Line

Nutrition plays an important role in the development of prostate cancer. While some nutrients may increase the risk, others may decrease the risk.

Overall, a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources like fish and chicken may help to decrease the risk of prostate cancer. On the other hand, a diet that is high in red meat, processed foods, and saturated fat may increase the risk.