6 Steps to Help Prevent Prostate Cancer

All men face some risk of developing prostate problems, but if you’re interested in prostate cancer prevention, there are many steps you can take.

While there is some conflicting information about how to prevent prostate cancer, the Mayo Clinic says it is widely accepted that many steps to improve overall health will also help lower the risk.

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Here are some things you can do to help prevent getting prostate cancer:

1. Eat more vegetables. According to the AARP, eating more cooked tomatoes has been a longtime recommendation because tomatoes contain lycopene, which has been shown to reduce tumor growth. However, it is important to incorporate a greater variety of fruits and vegetables into the diet. Dark, leafy greens like kale and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage are particularly helpful.

2. Consume less red meat. The AARP says that red meat, particularly when it is cooked well-done, is full of carcinogens. Instead, try substituting fish for red meat for protein. It is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and slow tumor growth.

3. Drink coffee. A 2011 study from Harvard University showed that men who drink at least six cups of coffee daily, with or without caffeine, have a 20 percent lower risk of developing prostate cancer.

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4. Maintain a healthy weight. Obese men with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher have an increased risk of prostate cancer, Mayo Clinic says. Reduce calories and exercise frequently to get to a healthy weight.

5. Get plenty of vitamin D. Mounting research shows that a vitamin D deficiency can contribute to the development of many cancers, including prostate cancer. Dr. Joel Fuhrman says that regular exposure to the sun can help, but is often not enough. He recommends supplementing if low vitamin D levels have been confirmed.

6. Ejaculate regularly. Having sex or masturbating frequently may help with prostate cancer prevention. A large recent study mentioned by AARP showed that men who ejaculate at least 21 times each month had a 33 percent lower risk of developing prostate cancer when compared with men who ejaculated only four to seven times a month.

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