Hey, friend.
Did you know? Prostate cancer is quite common nowadays. According to the National Cancer Institute, it is the second leading cause of death by cancer in men (after lung cancer). Furthermore, each year, 27,000 American men die from the condition. Clearly, it needs to be taken seriously.
Due to the stigma associated with talking about private parts, however, there is little discussion about the topic. That’s going to change today, for the simple reason that you and your loved ones deserve to be well. Following are 10 ways to naturally prevent prostate issues.
From consuming more cabbage to adopting new lifestyle habits, there are a variety of ways men can heighten their health and reduce their risk of ever developing prostate cancer, naturally.
1) Selenium
This beneficial mineral counters a variety of cancers. In James Howenstine’s book, A Physicians Guide to Natural Health Products That Work, studies showed that patients receiving selenium had a 67% decrease in cancer of the prostate, a 58% decrease in prostate of the colon or rectal cancer, and a 45% decrease in lung cancer.
Selenium is a powerful antioxidant that is found abundantly in brazil nuts, pumpkin seeds, and in lesser amounts in garlic, broccoli, and whole grains.
2) Vitamin D
Receiving 10-15 minutes of golden rays from the sun is a powerful way to prevent prostate cancer. According to a previous study mentioned in Mercola, men with higher levels of Vitamin D in their blood were half as likely to develop aggressive forms of the cancer as those with lower amounts. Similarly, a groundbreaking study also showed that appropriate sunshine exposure could prevent 600,000 cases of colorectal and breast cancer each year, worldwide. While it can be found in fortified foods, some vegetables and leafy greens, and in certain dairy products, the best source is the sun.
3) Cruciferous Vegetables
Recent studies have shown that three phytochemicals from cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli, kale, brussel sprouts, and cabbage) can inhibit prostate cancer. Other sources conclude that consuming cabbage on a regular basis reduces the likelihood of the reproductive organ issues in men by 60%! These life-affirming foods can easily be included into soups, salads, juices, stir-fry’s, and other creative dishes.
4)Omega-3’s
High-fat, high-protein standard diets are abundant in Omega-6 fatty acids, but not plentiful enough in Omega-3’s. This raises the risk of becoming obese, developing atherosclerosis (heart disease), and creating a system which Cancer thrives in.
Consuming more Omega-3’s in the form of flax seeds (which are rich in lignans and promote prostate health) can be incredibly beneficial. A large study found that men with higher enterolactone levels (found in flax seeds) were up to 72% less likely to get prostate cancer than those with the lowest levels. Along with a low-fat, plant-based diet, omega-3’s from flax seeds or only wild-caught, cold-water fish can drastically reduce a man’s chance of developing cancer of the prostate.
5) Green Tea
Instead of coffee, opting for a cup of green tea in the morning can boost one’s health and contribute to a healthier flow. Laboratory research suggests that green tea catechins may inhibit the growth of cancer cells. In a clinical study, it was demonstrated that these catechins were 90% more effective in preventing prostate cancer in men with pre-malignant lesions. Drinking 200 mg of green tea three times per day offers this benefit, and it’s an easy addition to anyone’s day.
6) Lycopene
Many studies indicate that consuming enough lycopene (found in anti-oxidant rich red fruits such as tomatoes, raspberries, and watermelon) may help reduce the risk of prostate cancer. However, no studies support any benefit from taking lycopene in supplement form.
Reap the benefits the red fruits offer by including them in salads, consuming them on their own, or working them into snacks.
7) Know what to Eliminate:
According to leading experts and most sources, the same fundamental lifestyle changes need to be adopted when it comes to cancer. Regarding diet, these foods must be eliminated to completely rid one of prostate cancer, or dramatically reduce the risks of ever procuring the disease.
- High-glycemic carbohydrates (refined sugar, white pasta, white breads, and most grains)
- All pasteurized dairy
- Conventional grain and chemical-fed animals
- Most fish, due to high levels of mercury and PCB contamination
8) Leafy Greens
Vitamin K (which is incredibly abundant in green, leafy vegetables) is an integral mineral for reducing prostate cancer risk. Having high levels of potassium (Vitamin K) may also reduce one’s risk for Alzheimer’s disease, reduce bruising, strengthen bones, improve skin, and reduce risk of developing heart disease (because it prevents hardening of the arteries). Regarding prostate cancer, it can reduce blood clotting, increase circulation, and in effect, support the healthy flow of urine and blood to the prostate.
Consuming leafy green vegetables will provide an ample amount of this life-giving mineral and ensure optimal health.
9) Boron
If you’re concerned about developing prostate cancer, consider supplementing Boron. Studies show that boron can reduce prostate cancer by 54%. Boron compounds inhibit the activity of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and inhibits prostate cancer cell proliferation while allowing normal prostate cells to grow.
In animal studies, researchers found that oral administration of various concentrations of Boron containing solution led to a 25-38% decrease in tumor size, and an 86-89% reduction in PSA levels. A typical daily intake range for Boron is 1-8 milligrams per day. Consult with your naturopathic doctor to find what amount is optimal for your personal needs.
10) Psycho-spiritual Aspect
In the past, Chinese doctors knew that before a disease could manifest, there had to be an energetic imbalance that preceded it. Emotions and/or inhibiting lifestyle situations all contribute to disease in some way, therefore the impact they cause needs to be acknowledged for true healing to take place.
According to a variety of sources, prostate cancer is linked with severe frustration, sexual conflict, and feeling less than worthy (common with today’s skewed stereotype of ‘manhood’). A lack of energy in the sacral chakra can manifest as reproductive issues for both sexes, and to move through the limitations such beliefs can cause, changing one’s thinking must become a priority.
Stating affirmations three times a day, such as “I love and accept myself unconditionally”, “I am completely healed, loved, and accept my sexuality”, or “I am a beautiful, healthy, and balanced in all ways” are examples one may adopt if they feel called.
All in all, consuming a more natural, plant-based diet with an emphasis on whole grains, fresh fruit, vegetables, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds, and an occasional amount of fish may offer a variety of benefits for those seeking to prevent prostate cancer. In addition to moderate exercise, a positive attitude, and willingness to heal, avoidance of this common disease is completely possible.
So what do you guys think? It’s great information that deserves to be shared with those you love and care for, yes? If you agree, please do Bloom for Life a favor and press than SHARE button below. The more people we share natural health news with, the more that may likely become empowered to better their health and Bloom for Life.
AND, if you haven’t already, be sure to SIGN UP for the FREE newsletter (you get tons of free recipes & inspiration straight to your inbox – oh, PLUS an awesome ‘Getting Started’ e-book just by opting in) in one of the forms above, to the side, or below. 😉
Namaste,
Amanda Froelich
