Natural Therapies for Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australia and the third most common cause of cancer death. Yet men still seem to have trouble talking about it.
Risk Factors
The risk of prostate cancer rises with age, while family history also increases the chances of developing the disease.
Diet also plays a big role – research has found an association between a diet high in fats, red meat and dairy and low in fresh fruit and vegetables linked to this type of cancer.
Symptoms
Prostate cancer cells usually grow very slowly, so early detection and treatment can significantly improve survival rates.
Unfortunately, there aren’t many early warning signs of prostate cancer. However, urinary incontinence, an inability to urinate, weak urine flow, pain during urination, erection difficulties or painful ejaculation, and recurrent pain in hips, thighs or lower back are all signs for concern.
A routine digital rectal examination to feel the prostate, a blood test for detecting prostate abnormalities and a urine test are the best methods of diagnosis.
How can natural therapies help with prostate cancer?
Prevention of prostate cancer starts with the diet. First, increase your intake of vegetables and fruits – these contain essential antioxidants and micronutrients, crucial for your health. Tomatoes are particularly good for their high levels of lycopene, which has been shown to reduce your chances of developing prostate cancer. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and kale are also great for their high levels of sulforaphane, which has been associated with lowering the risk of prostate cancer.
One of the best things you can do for your health is to start an exercise regime. Exercise has been associated with lowering the risk of developing prostate cancer, as well as benefiting men who are living with it. The most recent studies suggest that obesity may even promote the development of more aggressive forms of prostate cancer.
The final step to prevention, particularly for men who have a high risk of developing prostate cancer, is to start a natural prevention program. This involves taking practitioner-quality nutrients to ensure the essential nutrients for prostate health are being met, including Selenium, Vitamin E, Vitamin D, Lycopene and Zinc.
If you have any more questions, you can call us to book a FREE 15 minute chat with one of our Naturopaths to see how we can help you. Call now on (02) 4961 4075.
Yours in health,
David Marston
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