When focusing on our health, most of us know that looking at what we eat is crucial. When discussing prostate cancer risk reduction through diet, there are a some simple guidelines to follow that will leave your body better suited to fight the development of the cancer, that we discussed here.
However, there are two main components of the typical Standard American Diet that must be changed when the word cancer comes into the conversation. The standard American Diet is centered around over indulgence in two categories – red meat and dairy. Cutting down the amount of these two products, more similar to a Mediterranean Diet or Plant Based diet, will not only have you feeling healthier, but create an environment in your body that is less conducive to cancer, especially prostate cancer.
Here’s why…
Red Meat: A diet high in meat may be associated with an increased risk of developing prostate cancer. This is due to heterocyclic amines (HCAs) which are carcinogens found in cooked meat. HCAs have been linked to the development of several cancers, and The World Health Organization suggests that both red and processed meats may be associated with increased risk of developing prostate cancer. Examples include beef, pork, lunch meats, hot dogs, bacon, and sausages.
Instead of red or processed meats, try these protein sources instead:
- Lean poultry, like skinless turkey or chicken
- Fish such as tuna, salmon, cod, or other sea food
- Beans and legumes, like split peas, chickpeas, lentils, pinto beans, and kidney beans
- Nuts like cashews, almonds, and pistachios, and nut butters
- pPant based options like mushrooms, edamame, or tempeh
You may also experiment with eating meat-free for some meals or days of the week. Here are some ideas to try:
- Replace the meat in your favorite chili or stew with beans
- Grill up fish fillets instead of steaks
- Make a black bean burger instead of a hamburger
Dairy: Consuming large amounts of dairy products may increase your risk of developing prostate cancer. According to research published in the Journal of Nutrition, drinking whole milk may increase the risk of progression to fatal prostate cancer. Casein, the protein in dairy, can promote proliferation of prostate cancer cells. Prostate cancer cells (PC-3 and LNCaP) proliferate at an increased rate with α-casein supplementation.
Try instead:
- Flax milk
- Rice milk
- Almond milk
- Hemp milk
- Soy milk
- Coconut milk
- Cashew milk
If you would like to further discuss a diet suitable for prostate cancer risk reduction and prevention, please call us to schedule an insurance-covered consultation with our Austin nutritionist.
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