This Blue November, learn important information about the disease and invest in foods to prevent prostate cancer
OR prostate cancer This is a topic still full of taboos among the male public, since prevention involves fear of preventive tests and treatments. Did you know, however, that you can rely on food to prevent illness?
According to the National Cancer Institute (INCA), this type of cancer will reach 71,730 new cases this year, being the most common type among Brazilian men, after skin cancer.
The appearance, in turn, can occur due to various factors, such as age, family history, overweight and lifestyle as a whole. The lack of knowledge of the pathology, however, is one of the factors that most distances people from taking care of their health.
How about, then, we clarify some common doubts on the topic, which gains importance with the Blue November campaign? See below for important information about diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.
Prostate cancer diagnosis
Prostate cancer often appears silently, without any signs of threat to men’s health, which affects the effectiveness of treatment, since the diagnosis is often made only when the pathology has already reached advanced levels.
If you have signs such as: blood in your urine, discomfort when urinating, weaker than normal urine flow, pain when ejaculating, or the need to urinate more frequently, especially at night, it is essential to seek medical attention.
In any case, from the age of 40 onwards, some specific tests are important to identify the disease. In the digital rectal exam, for example, the doctor evaluates the size, shape and structure of the organ, while the PSA test measures the amount of a protein produced by the prostate, called Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA). When this protein reaches high levels, cancer can develop, which is not always malignant. If changes are detected, a biopsy should be performed.
Effective treatments are currently available, but it is worth remembering that if diagnosed in the early stages, prostate cancer has a 90% chance of being cured. Therefore, keep your medical appointments updated.
The keys to disease prevention
In addition to going to the doctor for preventive tests, it is important to avoid alcohol consumption and smoking, as well as practicing physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day. This is justified because being overweight is also one of the risk factors. But beyond exercise, investing in a healthy diet is an important step toward maintaining your health.
“The overall lifestyle is very important for the development and outcome of the disease. In this sense, good food choices play a fundamental role in the proper functioning of the immune system, which, once strengthened, will have a greater chance of fight whatever is necessary, protect the body”, underlines Jasmine’s nutritionist and consultant, Adriana Zanardo.
To improve the immune system’s response, prevent disease and maintain effectiveness during treatment, the professional highlighted seven dietary tips to prevent prostate cancer.
Foods to prevent prostate cancer
real food
Choose to include more nutritious, less processed foods in your meals: greens, greens, fruits, and whole grains are excellent options, as well as nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fish;
Reduce your consumption of red meat
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends consuming 300 g per week. It is also worth limiting the consumption of processed meats (cured, salted, fermented and smoked) as much as possible;
Invest in foods rich in omega 3
The nutrient has an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action, which can help reduce the risk of the disease;
Add fiber to your diet
A healthy intestinal microbiota contributes to the body’s defense. Fiber is present in vegetables, fruits, seeds and various whole grains such as oats and quinoa.
Give more value to vitamin E
The nutrient was effective in inhibiting the growth of prostate cancer cells. This type of vitamin is found in sesame and flax seeds, as well as dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale, and watercress), among others.
Include tomatoes in your meals
Scientific studies show that lifelong intake of lycopene (found in tomatoes) can help prevent prostate cancer, as the bioactive compound has anti-tumor activity, hindering the formation and multiplication of affected cells. Food also helps during the treatment phase of the disease.
Avoid excess fat
Limited consumption of saturated fats can help prevent cancer and other diseases. Therefore, it is important to replace fried foods, breaded foods and ultra-processed products with healthier options.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
