If you are a man, you may have heard through the grapevine that prostate problems are imminent. You have probably also heard that at some point in the near to distant future, you are going to have to see a urology doctor. Manhattan urologists, luckily, are some of the best in the nation. However, the fact of the matter is that that which you’ve heard is absolutely true. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 6 of every 100 men in America get prostate cancer every year. That may not seem like a very large number at first glance, but prostate cancer is the second most common form of cancer amongst men in the United States.
There is no definitive way to guarantee the prevention of prostate cancer, however there are many proven ways to dramatically lower your chances. Just because it is a real threat does not mean that it is out of your control to prevent. So let us take a closer look so we can understand what we must do to keep you healthy.
Before we continue, we should get the basics out of the way. What is a prostate anyway? The prostate, in the simplest terms, is where the semen is produced and stored. It is located beneath the bladder near the penis. There are many ways in which your habits can cause a lot of damage to your prostate, which by the way can withhold a lot of wear and tear, but has its limits beginning in the middle aged years of life. Here are what those bad habits are and what you have to do to break them.
Above all other factors, diet is the most important and effective way to detract the onset of prostate cancer. Red fruits, specifically tomatoes and watermelon, are rich with what is called lycopene, which is an antioxidant proven to lower the likelihood of getting prostate cancer. The redder the better. Also, if you cook them, your body has an easier time absorbing the lycopene. Also, green vegetables help break down carcinogens, which unfortunately we all consume pretty regularly.
Aside from the fruits and veggies, what kinds of meats you consume can also inflict damage on your prostate. For example, red meat, not something you want to be eating every day. White meat, fish especially, is always a better way to go. Fatty fish is ideal. That entails tuna, salmon, and others. Fatty fish is good because it has omega-3 fatty acids. Studies have shown that they reduce the risk of prostate cancer as well.
The most important thing, however, is to recognize that this is not a punishment. A diet implies that the changes you are making are temporary. If you want to have a steak, go ahead and do it already! The key is to develop healthy habits that you can maintain for years to come. All in moderation, as the expression goes.
Regardless of your diet, the fact of the matter is that prostate cancer is a very real thing, which is why it is always better to be safe than sorry. The best way to cover your tracks is with a urology doctor. Manhattan residents can rest assured, that they will be in good hands with Luzato Medical Group. For more information, contact us anytime online or give us a call at (212) 661-7003.
