Health Hacks for Your Prostate

It's time to talk about prostate health.

What is a prostate?

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that is part of the male reproductive system. The prostate, which is located below the bladder and around the urethra, is responsible for producing some of the fluid that makes up semen.¹

Why is prostate health important?

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the United States and represents around 15% of all new cancer cases.²

In addition to cancer, there are other prostate conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), to be aware of, as they can share many of the same symptoms. BPH is when the prostate is enlarged, though not cancerous, thus making it benign.³ Primarily affecting men over 50, BPH can cause bladder and urinary tract issues.

While it is important to seek assistance from a healthcare provider should you have any prostate cancer symptoms or concerns, here are some prostate health hacks to keep in mind throughout your daily routine: 

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1. Healthy diet

A healthy diet can benefit your entire body, not just the prostate. Next meal planning session, add colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats while cutting foods high in sodium, saturated fats and sugar. Try to keep a limited intake of dairy and red meat. 

For more on what to cut out, check out Want to Prevent Prostate Cancer? Limit These 6 Foods.  

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2. More exercise

It's time to add more physical activity to your routine for the sake of prostate health. Ongoing studies indicate that more physically active men tend to have fewer BPH cases,⁴ plus it's great for cardiovascular health.

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‍3. Nutrient boosts

Antioxidants may be where it's at. Try more foods rich in lycopene (an antioxidant found in red produce)⁵ or pumpkin seeds, which are in fiber, zinc and antioxidants!⁶ To be clear, natural remedies do not replace medical care but are here if you are looking for extra ways to care for your prostate.

Read more with The 6 Most Effective Natural Remedies for an Enlarged Prostate.

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4. Get an annual check-up

Annual health check-ups are an essential way to catch any health issues before they become more serious. Though prostate cancer screening is typically only recommended for men over 50, discussing your risk factors and screening options with your health provider is important.

With imaware's Prostate Cancer Screening Test, you can conveniently measure your PSA levels and screen for prostate cancer from home. 

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References:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. What Is Prostate Cancer? Accessed September 27, 2023.
2. National Cancer Institute. Cancer Stat Facts: Prostate Cancer. Accessed September 27, 2023.
3. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Prostate Enlargement (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia). Accessed September 27, 2023.
4. Harvard Health Publishing. Exercise and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Accessed September 27, 2023.
5. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity. Lycopene: Food Sources, Biological Activities, and Human Health Benefits. Accessed September 27, 2023.
6. Plants. Nutritional Value, Phytochemical Potential, Therapeutic Benefits of Pumpkin (Cucurbita sp.). Accessed September 27, 2023.