According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, and their risk rises rapidly after age 50. The good news is that not all prostate cancer is life-threatening, and early diagnosis is the key to the best clinical outcomes. The Arkansas Prostate Cancer Foundation makes it easy to find a free community screening in your area, and we encourage you to visit our website to order free educational materials. There are also plenty of things you can do on your own to decrease your chances of developing prostate cancer, and it begins with an active lifestyle and a healthy diet!
ACS’s Guideline for Diet and Physical Activity for Cancer Prevention recommends 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week, and maintaining a diet of properly proportioned nutrient-rich foods. Dietary recommendations include eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and fiber-rich legumes, and limiting or avoiding red meats, sugar-sweetened beverages, and highly processed foods. Research has also shown that certain foods have cancer-fighting properties. Be sure to add some of the following “superfoods” to your cart next time you visit the grocery store!
Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries are all loaded with antioxidants and phytochemicals that work with your gut bacteria to help fend off cancer and other chronic diseases. They’re also low in calories, making them an excellent alternative to candy and other sweets of minimal nutritional value.
Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, and cauliflower, are absolutely loaded with nutrients, including beta-carotene, folate, and vitamins C, E, and K. They’re also full of fiber and other biologically active compounds that can inhibit cancer development.
Oatmeal is an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants, as well as phytoestrogens that can lower your risk of developing cancer, heart disease, and osteoporosis. It also contains beta-glucan, which can significantly reduce fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin A1C, and total cholesterol. Plain steel-cut oats are definitely an acquired taste, but dark berries and a moderate amount of honey are a tasty alternative to adding sugar and cream if you want to start your day with something healthy and sweet!
To learn more about prostate health or cancer screenings in Little Rock, contact us online or at 501-379-8027
