Let’s face it, there are not many men who look forward to prostate exams. But since prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer in men, it’s something you should discuss with your primary care physician at Los Gatos Doc Clinic to determine your risk factors.
Getting screened, even when you are healthy and have no symptoms, is important because catching prostate cancer early makes it not only easier to treat but more likely to be cured.
If you are a man between the ages of 40 to 50, talk to the best primary care physician in Los Gatos for recommendations.
After talking with your doctor there are lifestyle changes that you can implement yourself that can have a tremendous impact in keeping your prostate healthy.
Tea! Tea! And More Tea!
Studies show that green tea and hibiscus tea are beneficial to keeping a healthy prostate and urinary tract. The one caveat, however, is to avoid tea with caffeine. Caffeine can be an irritant to the prostate and the bladder and can even exacerbate incontinence. So it’s important to cut back on energy drinks, soda, coffee and anything with caffeine. Drinking lots of water, caffeine free green tea and hibiscus tea are highly recommended.
Keep A Healthy Weight Through Exercise
Losing weight, if you are overweight, is a good idea for overall health, and studies show that moderate to vigorous exercise can shrink your prostate and help prevent other problems such as cardiovascular disease and erectile dysfunction. You don’t have to join the gym or run a marathon. Try to incorporate a long walk every day into your schedule. Start out with ten minutes a day and do a little more every day until it’s a daily habit. Small changes can produce big results over time.
Eat Healthy To Be Healthy
The goal is to prevent the slow growth of cancerous prostate cells and there are many delicious, healthy foods that are excellent for prostate health. All over the world, where men have the lowest rates of prostate cancer, diets consist of a lot of fish and are plant based. Consuming oily fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids and vegetables is key. Incorporate salmon, sardines, tomatoes, walnuts, avocados, shiitake mushrooms into your diet, and keep sugar and processed foods to a bare minimum.
Get Rid Of Stress!
Did you know that a lot of men, when stressed, tighten their pelvic muscles without even being aware of it, and this behavior can cause chronic prostatitis. Chronic stress can also cause urinary problems. Do the things that bring you relaxation and joy to bring your stress levels down. If you need to, talk to a therapist, try meditation, do yoga or join a Tai Chi group. Social relationships are important, so make sure not to isolate yourself. Having someone to talk to can reduce stress and keep you mentally strong and healthy.
Talk To Your Doctor
Diet and exercise are the two factors that will lower your risk and keep you in the best shape possible to fight off illness.
Prostate cancer is highly preventable and treatable if caught early. Book your appointment with your primary care doctor in Los Gatos Doc to get all the answers to your questions about prostate health.