According to urologist Des Moines Dr. Fawad Zafar, men who consume in excess of 10 portions of tomatoes per week have an 18% lower risk of developing prostate cancer.
To assess if following dietary and lifestyle recommendations reduces risk of prostate cancer, researchers examined the diets and lifestyle of over 1,800 men between the ages of 50 and 69 who had prostate cancer and compared them with some 12,000 cancer-free men.
This was the first study of its kind used in the development of a prostate cancer dietary index consisting of dietary components—selenium, calcium, and foods rich in lycopene—that have been associated with prostate cancer.
Your urologist Des Moines reported that research showed that men who had optimal intake of these three dietary components had a lower risk of prostate cancer.
What does the Study Suggest?
Tomatoes and tomato products, including tomato juice and baked beans, were shown to be most beneficial, resulting in an 18% reduction in risk found in men who consumed over 10 portions per week. It is believed that this reduction is linked to lycopene, an antioxidant that fights off toxins that can cause DNA and cell damage.
Although findings suggest that tomatoes may be important in prostate cancer prevention, further studies need to be conducted to confirm the findings, especially through human trials. Men should still eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, maintain a healthy weight, and stay active.
If you are interested in way to reduce your risk of prostate cancer, call the office of urologist Des Moines Dr. Fawad Zafar today to schedule a consultation.