Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (306 page)

Soy products. These contain isoflavones, which can reduce testosterone levels. This may be useful if the prostate cancer is linked to high testosterone levels. Good soy foods to include are tempeh, tofu, plain soy yogurt, edamame, miso, natto, and tamari. Soy isolates such as textured vegetable protein tend not to have the same beneficial effects.

Brazil nuts, which are one of the best sources of selenium, an important anticancer nutrient that is particularly important for prostate health. Make sure they are organic, as their nutrient content is likely to be higher than conventionally grown nuts.

Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and kale) contain potent anticancer chemicals. These are also found in pomegranate juice, which contains antioxidants that can slow the progression of prostate cancer.

Oily fish, hemp seeds, flax seeds, and walnuts. These are all sources of the essential omega-3 fats, which are often low in those with prostate cancer.

Soluble fiber. Men with diets high in soluble fiber have been found to have lower levels of PSA than those who do not eat much fiber. Good sources of soluble fiber include oats, barley, lentils, peas, beans, fruits, and vegetables.

Organic foods in general, which are higher in nutrients and lower in potentially damaging chemicals.

AVOID

Meat and meat cooked at high temperatures (such as broiled, barbecued, or fried meats). Cooking meat at high temperatures leads to the formation of heterocyclic aromatic amines, which are carcinogenic (cancer forming).

Salt, alcohol, caffeine, sugar, fatty meats, fried foods, and dairy products. These can potentially challenge the immune system, deplete the body of nutrients, and increase the risk and progression of cancer. Fats to avoid include saturated fats from fatty meats and dairy products and processed or heated fats such as those in margarines, pastries, chips, and burnt or fried foods.

EXTRA TIP

Spend time outside in daylight every day. Prostate cancer is more likely to develop in men with low levels of vitamin D. The best source of vitamin D is from the action of sunlight on the skin. Aim for at least 30 minutes a day.

PROSTATE ENLARGEMENT

This is also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and is characterized by an enlarged prostate gland. This is extremely common in men over the age of 40.

Symptoms include frequent urination, hesitancy, and intermittent flow with reduced force. There may also be pain on urination and pain in the lower stomach area. If left untreated, the retained urine can flow back into the bloodstream and cause dangerous complications. If left untreated the prostate can become cancerous.

UNDERLYING CAUSES

Hormonal imbalances—testosterone levels in men tend to decrease with age while other hormones, such as prolactin and estrogen, increase. Often there is an increase in the level of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the prostate. DHT stimulates the production of prostate cells, leading to enlargement.