Some delicious, common spices help prostate health, and making them a part of your diet could be a good move. For example, turmeric and prostate cancer are not often talked about in the same vein but the truth is that this spice, and others, have a long history in the prevention of prostate cancer in many Asian cultures. So add a little spice to your life and your prostate health will benefit from it. In particular be sure to include cayenne, turmeric, and ginger in your recipes and as supplements, and you may notice a difference.
Turmeric has long been recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties, which are helpful in the management of prostatitis and prostate cancer. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which also provides the peppery taste.
Cayenne peppers, which are also known as chili peppers, contain a high concentration of capsaicin, a substance that has pain-reducing properties and an ability to help kill prostate cancer cells.
Ginger is a common spice often valued for its ability to soothe a queasy stomach. However, ginger also has demonstrated an ability to inhibit prostate cancer growth and promote the death of prostate cancer cells.
In a 2016 study of spices for the prevention and treatment of cancer, the authors reviewed a number of candidates, including turmeric, ginger, and cayenne peppers, along with garlic, saffron, black cumin, and black pepper. They noted that the main mechanisms of action included promotion of cell suicide (apoptosis), inhibiting the spread and migration of tumors, and sensitizing tumors to radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
Turmeric, ginger, and cayenne pepper can easily be added to salsas, sauces, soups, stews, and as a spicy kick to your vegetable dishes, depending on your taste preferences. All three spices also are available as supplements for prostate health.
Read more in our Prostate Cancer Health Center.
Reference
Zheng J et al. Spices for prevention and treatment of cancers. Nutrients 2016 Aug 12; 8(8): pii
