Prostate Cancer Prevention: Foods Rich In Lycopene And Vitamin D Can Reduce Risk

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer for men in America. Fortunately, some studies suggest that good nutrition might help in prostate cancer prevention.

Foods rich in lycopene and vitamin D might reduce a man's risk of developing prostate cancer, the Seattle Times reports. Aside from helping in prostate cancer prevention, nutrition can probably help in its treatment as well.

Bret "The Hitman" Hart will return to @WWE for the first time since undergoing successful prostate cancer surgery. https://t.co/ExnRS5F20J

— ESPN (@espn) April 20, 2016

Lycopene is a pigment that gives red color to fruits and vegetables. Examples of food rich in lycopene include apricots, guavas, tomatoes and watermelons. "Remember, though, when we eat foods high in lycopene -- those with red-colored flesh -- we also get a host of other nutrients that work together to fight against cancer," the Seattle Times explains.

Vitamin D might also help protect the cells found in the prostate gland. Research has shown that men with prostate cancer usually have lower levels of vitamin D.

Thanks @realperrikiely @Mitch_Craske 4 supporting men with prostate cancer & https://t.co/c7iIeqYvGY 5k&10k runs ! pic.twitter.com/WBLOgC6lM8 — Go Dad Run (@godadrun) April 23, 2016

However, experts are not sure about which one is more effective for prostate cancer prevention -- taking vitamin D supplements or getting the vitamin from sun exposure. Foods like salmon, tuna, mackerel, orange juice, cereals, beef liver and eggs can also provide the body with vitamin D, WebMD shares.

However, consulting a doctor before starting a nutrition therapy is recommended because vitamin D can be toxic if taken in doses of more than 10,000 IU per day over a couple of years. Other prostate cancer prevention methods include eating a low-fat diet, maintaining an ideal body weight and regular physical exercise, according to Mayo Clinic.