The prostate gland is an organ found only in men, and its primary responsibilities is to produce seminal fluid. This male reproductive gland works by mixing its seminal fluid with semen, which is manufactured by the testicles, and when combined the fluid assists in transporting semen out of the male body during ejaculation.
Because prostate cancer is one of the leading cancers among men, protecting this vital gland should be done by monitoring your eating habits and lifestyle choices.
According to current research, consuming ample fiber and water may help protect the prostate gland from conditions such as benign prostate hyperplasia, or BPH. While you can take control of your prostate health by monitoring what you consume, you should have your prostate regularly checked by your doctor.
Fiber and the Prostate:
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, fiber is an essential compound for a healthy body, and it is available in two forms: soluble and insoluble fiber. While these type of fibers slightly vary, your body uses each version to promote not only digestive system health, but also overall health.
The University of Maryland Medical Center outlines a study where men who consumed a high-fiber diet has a significantly lowered risk of developing prostate cancer when compared to men who did not consume ample fiber.
According to the University of California San Francisco Medical Center, fiber helps protect the prostate by reducing hormone levels that are known to support prostate cancer growth as well as reducing the symptoms of benign prostate enlargement.
Water and the Prostate:
To ensure fiber is effective at preventing and treating prostate ailments, you must consume ample water. Because every tissue and organ in your body requires water to function, drinking plenty of water may help support healthy prostate function by enhancing your immune system and supporting the production of healthy prostate cells.
Fiber and Water Dosage:
According to the University of California San Francisco Medical Center, men should consume 25 to 35 grams of fiber every day, which may be done by taking fiber supplements or consuming high-fiber dietary sources such as wheat. The Mayo Clinic outlines information provided by the Institute of Medicine stating men should drink a minimum of three liters of water per day to sustain a healthy body. However, the actual amount of water you should consume is solely based on your overall activity level.
References Used:
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/fiber-000303.htm
University of Maryland Medical Center: Fiber
http://omegascience.org/organ_systems/prostate.aspx
Omega Science Institute: Prostate Health
http://www.ucsfhealth.org/education/nutrition_and_prostate_cancer/
University of California San Francisco Medical Center: Nutrition and Prostate Cancer
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/water/NU00283
Mayo Clinic: Water is Essential to Good Health, Yet Needs Vary by Individuals…