Diet for Prostate Cancer and Rising PSA

PSA, or prostate-specific antigen, is a protein produced in the prostate gland. Elevated levels of PSA can be a harbinger of cancer in the prostate, and thus a test has been devised to test PSA levels by way of blood sample. There are many food choices, to avoid and to embrace, for those trying to prevent prostate cancer by combating rising PSA levels.

Foods to Avoid

Before you employ a new diet to promote good prostate health, you must first cut out foods that do harm and promote prostate cancer growth. Avoid animal fat by eliminating red meat and high-fat milk and cheeses. These foods contain considerable amounts of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, also known as "bad" cholesterol, which promotes an unhealthy boost in testosterone which, in turn, causes tumors to form. Also strike fatty acids from your diet in the form of fried foods, baked goods and processed meals, as all of these foods promote tumor growth.

Foods to Enjoy

Every healthy diet should begin with green, leafy vegetables as they protect the body from cancer by keeping your digestive system healthy so that toxins can be properly ejected from your body. Tomatoes, including tomato products such as ketchup and tomato sauces, contain lycopene, which helps the body fight cancer. Soy, garlic and Omega-3 fish oils found in salmon and trout also promote gastrointestinal health. However, if you choose to eat fish, remember to bake or poach as frying will introduce high cholesterol oils into your diet that will sabotage any benefits you will enjoy from incorporating Omega-3s.

Calories and Caveats

When planning a diet to reduce PSA levels and fight prostate cancer, how much you put on your plate is almost as important as what you put on your plate. Limit calories by reducing portions to a suitable size. If you are too full to finish a meal, your portion is probably too large. Excess eating can cause acid reflux and other digestive ailments that may leave you more vulnerable to prostate cancer. Consult with your doctor before beginning your new diet, as he may have other ideas for you to consider based on your specific health condition.