THE FOOD-PROSTATE CONNECTION: GREEN TEA ANYONE?

A popular drink in the Orient is green tea. It is possible this tea may play a role in the lower incidence of prostate problems in Asians. Green tea is known to contain many antioxidants and is also thought to have compounds which act as 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors.

Palatable Paths to a Petite Prostate

Even with all these uncertainties, I am willing to make some preliminary recommendations until more evidence accumulates. For a healthier body and prostate:

Increase intake of fresh fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene or lycopene supplements are not necessary if a few pieces of vegetables and fruits are consumed each day; or mixed juices are drunk.

If excessive calories from fats are currently consumed, decrease intake to 20 to 30 percent or so of calories.

Include fat from fish, or fish oils in the diet. A small amount of flaxseed oil may be beneficial.

Incorporate more legumes and grains in the diet. They contain phytoestrogens and lignans.

Soy products are a great choice. They contain phytosterols, or phytoestrogens, such as genistein. Reduce tobacco and alcohol consumption. Excessive alcohol intake has shown to be toxic to rat prostates.

Reduce intake of sugar and calories.

Substitute herbal teas for sodas and sugared drinks. There are dozens of different types of herbal teas in grocery or health food stores. Buy half a dozen or so different ones and each morning try something new. Enjoy green tea. Herbal teas can be sweetened with a natural, non-caloric sweetener called stevia.

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Men's Health Erectile Dysfunction