A plant-based diet may have health benefits for men.
Plant-based diets are gaining popularity.
They mainly consist of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, nuts, and legumes. While most foods come from plant-based sources, this diet also includes poultry, beef, fish, and dairy. Plant-based foods contain essential vitamins and minerals along with phytochemicals and antioxidants that help the cells in your body stay healthy and your immune system strong. Plus, plant foods reduce inflammation, are high in fiber, and help with maintaining a healthy weight.
A plant-based diet may have health benefits for men.
According to three new studies, these benefits include decreased risk of developing prostate cancer (PC) and erectile dysfunction (ED), and lowering prostate-specific antigens (PSA) levels which relates to a healthier prostate1. Other studies also show that plant foods can help manage and prevent benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH)2, a type of enlarged prostate common in aging men.
Physicians and patients alike are moving toward a holistic approach to chronic disease management and prevention.
Researchers are busy trying to determine if things such as a plant-based diet will provide health benefits to not only PC, ED, and BPH but other chro
nic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Studies are also looking at the impact of vegan, vegetarian and Mediterranean diets. While more research still needs to be done to show efficacy, data does not show any harmful impact of following a plant-based diet.
Baker, Emily. “Plant-Based Diets Beneficial for Men’s Health, 3 New Studies Say.” Plant Based News, 14 Sept. 2021
Putka, Sophie. “Could a Plant-Based Diet Benefit Men’s Health below the Belt?” Medical News, MedpageToday, 30 Oct. 2022
If a plant-based diet is something you are interested in, I would be happy to work with you in setting up a customized diet plan that would fit your specific needs and preferences. As a dietitian, I find that no single diet works the same for everyone. Individualization is key for success. Your health and safety are also important to me along with making this a sustainable part of your lifestyle.