Dieting After a Diagnosis

Many people make new year's resolutions. Over the Christmas holiday I had the opportunity to fellowship with my family. We were able to talk about new year's resolutions and what we sought after in the new year. Listening attentively, they talked about eating healthy, exercising more, making more money, and traveling more.

However, none of the men in my family said anything about going to the doctor for an annual checkup. Eating healthy is only one part of health. I shared with the men in my family that it is important that they understand early prostate cancer detection and that it can be screened with annual checkups. Prostate cancer is the second-most-frequently diagnosed cancer in men, and it can grow quietly and without symptoms.

My dad's diet after getting diagnosed

My dad was initially diagnosed with prostate cancer back in 2008. During his initial diagnosis, my dad’s oncologist placed him on a strict dietary regime. There’s eating well when you’re healthy, and then there’s eating well when your body is fighting a serious illness. Below you will find foods that my dad’s doctor included in his regime and the reasons behind it.

Tomatoes

When consumed raw or cooked, tomatoes are filled with vitamins and minerals that may help limit cancer risk. Tomatoes are a good source of an antioxidant known as lycopene.¹

Grapes

Grapes contain a type of phytochemical known as resveratrol. Resveratrol can fight inflammation.²

Broccoli

Broccoli contains compounds such as sulforaphane that may be able to limit the progression of prostate cancer, though more research is needed. You can eat broccoli raw, or cook and put it in meals.³

Green tea

Green tea contains xanthine derivatives, epicatechin, and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) compounds and may be able to reduce cancer risk.^4,5

Pomegranate juice

Pomegranate juices are high in antioxidants and may inhibit the proliferation of some prostate cancer cells.⁶

Fish

Some studies indicate that fish and the omega-3 fats they have may protect against prostate cancer, though research is conflicted on this topic.⁷

Making a resolution to be healthy

As 2022 progresses, it is very important that the men in our lives make a resolution to not only being healthy, but to get annual doctor checkups for prostate cancer. Men should also ask their doctors about a dietary regime that can improve the health of the prostate.

It's always best to consult with your doctor before trying to make dietary changes. Certain foods may interact differently with drugs and treatment therapies. Make sure the regime you follow is one that is conducive to your treatment plan and overall health.