Power Foods

The human body needs a wide spectrum of food sources to stay healthy and thrive. Choosing a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy proteins will maximize your opportunity to get the best fuels for your body. Prostate health is supported by a variety of different power foods. There are many doctor-recommended diets designed specifically to support prostate health. Here are the five essential families of food that support prostate health, based on current research. Choose your favorites from these five families and you are well on your way to providing your body fuel for optimal health and performance.

Selenium Rich Food

Selenium Rich Foods for Prostate Health

The mineral selenium promotes the abundance of glutathione peroxidase, an antioxidant that is being heavily researched for its role in prostate health. Selenium may also slow tumor growth by increasing immune cell activity and suppressing the development of blood vessels in cancer tumors. Enjoy selenium rich foods such as fish and shellfish, brazil nuts and garlic.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous Vegetables for Prostate Health

All cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage and beets, contain a compound called sulforaphane. While fruits and vegetables contain vital antioxidants, the body also produces it’s own antioxidants. Eating sulforaphane activates production of these native antioxidants, powerful compounds that reduce inflammation, repair oxidative damage and remove carcinogens. Broccoli sprouts are the richest source of sulforaphane.

Polyphenols

Polyphenol Rich Foods for Prostate Health

Polyphenols are a group of antioxidants found in plants. Flavonoids are a subdivided group of polyphenols, and are found in abundance in soy, red wine, pomegranate and cranberries. Polyphenols are cancer preventing powerhouses with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Soy contains flavonoids and also plays an important role in balancing hormones, essential for lifelong prostate health.

Lycopene Rich Foods

Lycopene Rich Foods for Prostate Health

Lycopene is a carotenoid pigment, a phytochemical that gives fruits and vegetables their vibrant colors, especially red. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant and has specific anti-cancer properties. It has been shown to be particularly crucial in preventing and fighting prostate cancer. Cooked tomatoes are your best source of lycopene, but also look for bright red foods such as berries. Eating lycopene rich foods with healthy fats, such as olive oil or avocado dramatically increases absorption rates.