Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the prostate, a part of the male reproductive system. It is one of two leading causes of cancer death in men and one of the most common cancers among men. The good news is that prostate cancer is highly treatable if caught early.  Doctors typically prescribe a combination of lifestyle changes and treatment drugs—such as advanced prostate cancer drugs like XTANDI (Enzalutamide), ERLEADA (Apalutamide), Rubraca (Rucaparib), and ORGOVYX (Relugolix).

However, it often goes undetected for long periods and can spread to other bodily organs and even lead to death in some patients.  

While there are numerous foods that minimize risk of prostate cancer (e.g., fresh fruits and vegetables, unprocessed lean meats, fibrous whole grains, etc.); there are also certain foods to moderate or avoid to reduce the risk of prostate cancer development:

1. High fat dairy

High fat dairy products, such as whole milk, ice cream, cheese, sour cream, and butter, contain large amounts of saturated fats, which are linked to increased risk of prostate cancer. The reason for this is that dairy inhibits the enzyme Dopamine-Beta-Hydroxylase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone DHT, an enzyme that further increases cancer risk by damaging prostate tissues.

2. Red meat

Red meat is the number one food to avoid for prostate cancer. Studies show that diets rich in red meat increase the production of nitric oxide, which damages the muscle cells of the prostate and causes inflammation, contributing to prostate cancer development. 

3. Alcohol

Alcohol increases inflammation and may trigger the process of prostate cancer development. Alcoholic beverages of all types also inhibit enzymes that help keep cancer cells from multiplying, as well as the effects of aspirin and other anti-inflammatory medications that are frequently used to treat prostate cancer. Itn addition, alcohol consumption increases the production of nitric oxide, which can damage the muscle cells of the prostate and cause chronic inflammation, among other damage. 

4. Cured and processed meats

Processed meats, like bacon, salami and sausages, contain high nitrates and nitrites, which stimulate the production of cancer-causing chemicals. They also contain preservatives that increase the risk for cancer. Naturally cured meats, such as ham and bacon, can be a good choice of meat product, but should be limited to only two or three times per week. Instead try a naturally lean turkey or chicken as a sandwich meat. 

5. Fatty fast foods

Fast food is a bad choice, especially if your diet is largely made up of burgers, fried chicken, and french fries. These foods are high in calories, saturated fats, and sodium. The fat content of fast food can increase prostate cancer risk because of the saturated fats, which also increases the risk for other health problems, such as obesity and high cholesterol. It is best to moderate fast food consumption to a few times per month, and instead eat healthy meals made up of fresh vegetables, fruit, lean meats, plant-based proteins (i.e., soy, legumes, nuts, and beans), and fibrous whole grains. 

Prostate cancer is a common cancer, affecting 1 in 6 U.S. men over the age of 40. Diet plays a major factor in its development, adn studies show that individuals may be able to reduce the risk for prostate cancer by eating the best prostate cancer foods to help balance hormone levels and increase antioxidant levels within the body. However, focus on reducing or avoiding the intake of the foods listed above because they are all bad for prostate health.