Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, and the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men in the United States.
According to the American Cancer Society, more than 191,000 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in the United States this year, and more than 33,000 men will die from the disease. While there are many risk factors for prostate cancer, including age, family history, and race, some experts believe that diet may also play a role in the development and progression of the disease.
Here are the top four foods that men should eat to help reduce their risk of prostate cancer.
1. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to help prevent prostate cancer. In fact, a number of studies have found that men who consume more lycopene-rich foods have a lower risk of developing prostate cancer.
One study, for example, found that men who ate more than 10 servings of tomato-based foods per week had a 35% lower risk of prostate cancer compared to men who ate less than 1.5 servings per week. To get the most lycopene from tomatoes, it is best to eat them cooked, either in a sauce or soup.
2. Fish
Fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to help reduce inflammation in the body and may help prevent the development of prostate cancer.
In one study, men who ate fish at least three times a week had a 25% lower risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer compared to men who ate fish less than once a month. Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and sardines, are the best sources of omega-3s.
3. Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, are rich in phytochemicals, which have been shown to help prevent cancer.
In one study, men who ate three or more servings of cruciferous vegetables per week had a 41% lower risk of prostate cancer compared to men who ate less than one serving per week. To get the most benefit from these vegetables, it is best to eat them raw or lightly cooked.
4. Green Tea
Green tea is rich in compounds called catechins, which have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. In one study, men who drank green tea regularly had a 48% lower risk of developing prostate cancer compared to men who didn’t drink green tea.
To get the most benefit from green tea, it is best to drink it unsweetened and without milk.
While there is no magic food or diet that can guarantee men will not develop prostate cancer, eating a healthy and balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, as well as the four foods mentioned above, can help reduce their risk of developing the disease.