Eating For a Healthy Prostate

Greeting everyone.

Okay enough about women’s stuff…this one is for the boys!

That little gland that has us all dreading the visit to your GP to have a prostate check can actually be helped significantly by eating well. For a gland the size of a Walnut, the prostate manages to cause us fellas a lot of trouble. Basic anatomy explains it: the prostate wraps around the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the penis. Consequently when the gland enlarges, it can obstruct the flow of urine and this is where your troubles start.

There are many herbs that will help with prostate health such as Saw Palmetto, Stinging Nettle, Pygeum and also some foods and nutrients;

Zinc

This mineral has been shown to inhibit an enzyme that fosters prostate enlargement. Rich dietary sources of zinc include oysters and other shellfish, red meat, ginger, eggs, nuts, seeds and grains. Experts usually recommend men with Benign Prostate Hypertrophy – BPH- take 25-60mg of zinc daily. If taking an iron supplement, be sure to take your zinc at least 3 hours after it as they will compete for absorption.

Push The Protein

High protein diets ( in which 45% of daily calories come from protein ) have been shown to block the same enzyme that zinc affects, while diets containing less than 10% protein can increase DHT -dihydrotestosterone- the bad testosterone. Soya protein is especially helpful. It is high in hormone like substances called isoflavone that block out the effects of oestrogen excess as well as inhibit compounds that build DHT. It also contains compounds called phytosterols that have been shown to increase urinary flow. For optimal results, eat 90-120gms of soya beans, tofu, tempeh or powdered soy protein per day.

Fish or Flaxseed Oil

Essential fatty acids derived from Salmon, mackerel, haddock, cod or from flaxseeds can alleviate symptoms of BPH. These oils appear to work by reducing inflammation, which may be contributing to the cause of prostate enlargement. Flaxseed is best consumed as a meal made from the fresh ground seeds. Typical dosage: Mix 2-4 tablespoons into a smoothie or sprinkle onto other foods daily. If you just want to eat fish instead, 3-4 servings per week is recommended, alternatively a supplement in capsule form is ok. Follow manufacturer’s dosing recommendations.

Tomatoes

These red wonders may turn out to be the miracle food for keeping your prostate healthy. Tomatoes are very high in Lycopene, an antioxidant pigment similar to beta-carotene but much more potent, at least where the prostate is concerned. The lycopene in fresh tomatoes doesn’t appear to be absorbed too well, but cooking increase it’s absorbability, especially when it is combined with oil. Particularly good sources of Lycopene include organic ketchups or tomatoes sauces, tinned peeled tomatoes and tomato purree. Lycopene is also available in supplement form. Typical dosage: 10-30mg per day.

Try implementing these simple dietary steps into your daily routine of eating and reap the benefits to your plumbing fellas!

Have a great day!

Craig Hitchens. B.HSc.

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