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Foods to Help the Prostate Gland

The prostate is a reproductive gland that surrounds the male urethra. As men age, the prostate enlarges and might cause uncomfortable urinary problems. After age 50, one in two men report some prostate symptoms. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in American men. Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland, usually caused by bacteria. Benign enlargement of the prostate is the most common problem in older men. Prostate health has been linked to several dietary factors.

  1. Fight Zinc Deficiency

    • Eat foods rich in zinc. According to a 2009 study at Oregon State University, "Zinc concentrations in the prostate are uniquely high but are dramatically decreased with prostate cancer. Studies have suggested that increasing zinc in the prostate may be a potential therapeutic strategy." The recommended daily allowance for zinc is 15 milligrams.; most people who eat a "good" diet get 8-to-10 milligrams daily. One to four ounces of pumpkin seeds supplies adequate nutritional zinc. Other foods that are high in zinc are mushrooms, spinach, sunflower seeds, brewer's yeast and whole grains such as brown rice, millet and quinoa.

    Eat Fruits, Especially Red Ones

    • Fresh fruit contains a natural sugar called fructose that protects prostate cells against cancer. A Harvard Medical School study found that, "High fructose intake was related to a lower risk of advanced prostate cancer." Have plenty of tomatoes for lunch and dinner. Lycopene is the substance responsible for the red color of tomatoes and other fruits. It is associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer. Pure unsweetened cranberry juice is also beneficial to prevent urinary infections associated with enlarged prostate in some men and pomegranate juice has cancer-inhibiting antioxidants. Other fruits, such as blueberries and cantaloupe, and vegetables such as broccoli are cancer-fighters. The spice tumeric has anti-inflammatory properties that are helpful for the prostate gland.

    Eat Fish and Soy, Not Meat and Milk

    • Wild-caught cold-water fish such as salmon contain the most Omega-3 essential fatty acids that are associated with health benefits. A Canadian study found that, "Fish diets appear to be associated with less risk of prostate cancer detection, and meat diets appear to be associated with a three-fold increased risk of prostate cancer." The calcium in dairy products also is associated with increased prostate cancer risk. Soy isoflavones found in tofu, tempeh, edamame and soymilk added to the antioxidants in green tea are thought to be responsible for the lower incidence of prostate problems in Japanese men. Soy provides plant-based progesterone, which may balance male hormones to prevent prostate enlargement.

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