The prostate is a small gland in the male reproductive system. This is located around the urethra, below the bladder and in front of the rectum. It is an essential organ for sexual, reproductive and urinary function, so all the diseases that affect it have implications at these three levels, according to the Colombian Ministry of Health.
The prostate consists of a central area, where the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is produced, and a peripheral area, where they originate. more than 70% of tumors.
Prostate cancer “is the malignant growth of the prostate gland. In advanced stages, cancer cells spread to sites distant via lymphatic and blood vessels with the capacity to invade other organs”, explained the Ministry.
The prostate cancer It is the most common in men, it is the second cause of cancer mortality in the male population. and its appearance is directly related to age; The older you are, the greater the risk of suffering from this disease.
Four foods that are enemies of the prostate
Some experts have detected that there are four types of food that show a possible link with excessive consumption of them and that can affect prostate cancer, which are:
1. High-fat red meat and processed meat
The World Health Organization has suggested that both red and processed meat may be associated with an increased risk of developing prostate cancer, including high-fat beef, pork, and meats. sausages.
Experts say the reason could be due to a substance formed when meat is grilled called heterocyclic amines (HCAs). They are carcinogens found in cooked meat, which have been linked to various types of cancer.
Try instead:
- Skinless chicken breast.
- lean red meat
- Fresh or canned fish such as tuna, salmon or sardines.
- Beans and legumes such as lentils, peas, chickpeas, and kidney beans.
- Nut butters and nuts.
- Replace the meat in your favorite chili or stew with beans.
- Grill fish fillets instead of steaks.
2. Alcoholic beverages
Excessive alcohol consumption may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer in men, according to a prostate cancer prevention trial involving more than 10,000 men. This study found that heavy alcohol drinkers were twice as likely to be diagnosed as moderate drinkers.
Try instead:
- Water or sparkling water mixed with fresh fruit juice.
- Beers or non-alcoholic wines.
- sparkling juice
- There’s coffee.
3. Saturated and trans fats
Experts associate saturated and trans fats with prostate cancer, as studies have shown that these unhealthy fats possibly increase the risk of this disease. Even if they don’t increase your risk, reducing your intake of saturated and trans fats may benefit your prostate and overall health.
Reason for which, It is recommended to avoid foods that include those that are red meat, dairy products, high fat, baked goods, processed foods, butter, bacon, sausage and cream.
Try instead:
- Fish with omega-3 fatty acids such as tuna, salmon, mackerel, herring or trout.
- avocados
- Walnuts.
- Olive oil.
- Seeds.
4. Sugary foods and drinks and refined carbohydrates
Cancer cells can feed on sugar, so it’s wise for men to cut back on foods that contain too much sweet stuff. This would include all sugary drinks like soda or sweetened tea, along with cookies, cake, and other sugary concoctions.
Refined carbohydrates would be white rice or items made from white flour. These types of foods lack fiber, important vitamins and minerals, which could be helpful in reducing the risk of prostate cancer.
Additionally, experts note that if a man’s diet lacks color due to too many sugary/refined foods, his prostate health could suffer.
Try instead:
- Fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables.
- Make half your plate fruits and vegetables.
- Use whole grains like 100% whole wheat bread or brown rice.