Diet and nutrition play an important role in our overall health. With regards to prostate health, the exact nature of the complex interaction between the various nutrients and our own body’s metabolism is not completely understood, however certain principles are developing. It’s important to realize that dietary supplements are not tightly regulated and consult your physician before starting any supplement or drastic changes in your diet.

THE BATTLE OF THE BULGE!!!
The exact connection between prostate cancer and obesity is unclear, but there are some interesting findings. A low fat diet appears to give some protection and men who are obese do not do as well when it comes to prostate cancer treatment. This may be due to the obesity itself or a high fat diet. A diet low in saturated fat is not only good for your heart, it may be good for your prostate too!!

SAW PALMETTO
This is an herbal supplement that comes from a palm plant that is found in the southeastern United States. It is widely used for the treatment of symptoms associated with prostate enlargement. The benefits appear to be modest, but may be enough for some men who have mild symptoms. It is generally well tolerated.

LYCOPENE
Lycopenes are found in tomatoes, watermelon, papaya, guava and other vegetable and fruits. Some studies have shown higher intake of foods rich in lycopenes may reduce the risk of prostate cancer and also help in the treatment of chronic prostatitis. The best source appears to be cooked tomato foods such as spaghetti sauce. The mechanism of action may be related to the anti-oxidant activity of lycopenes. Anti-oxidants help counteract some of the harmful byproducts of metabolism, called free radicals.

SOY AND GREEN TEA
The Eastern diet appears to be protective against prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is less common in east-Asia. However, Asian men who move to the U.S. tend to have increased risks. The change in risk is usually attributed to a change in diet. Two parts of the Eastern diet that appear to be most likely to help prevent prostate cancer are green tea consumption and the use of soy products such as tofu. Both soy products and green tea have anti-oxidants, which are thought to be the active ingredient. There are formal studies underway with the use of anti-oxidants derived from these products.

SELENIUM
Low levels of selenium have been associated with higher risk of prostate cancer in certain studies. There is an ongoing large scale study to find out if selenium supplements can reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Selenium has many functions and its role in the function of the anti-oxidant Glutathione may be a key aspect of anti-cancer activity. Selenium is found in the soil and can there for be found in many plants including whole grains and nuts. It’s also found in brewer’s yeast, organ meats and eggs. High levels can be toxic and cause rash, hair and tooth loss. Usual ingestion at 200 micrograms a day seems to be safe in healthy individuals.