Certain family members of the Queerty editorial staff are undergoing surgery for prostate issues, and we send out our warmest get-well wishes. We’re also boning up, so to speak, on all our prostate health information:
The Good: Bioflavinoids found in green tea are thought to benefit prostate health, as are zinc-rich foods, like onions, peas, oysters and pumpkin seeds (who knew?). Zinc is stored in the prostate and is necessary for proper function. Zinc supplements should be avoided, as it can accumulate in the prostate to unhealthy levels; some research says it can even cause prostate cancer, but that’s still up in the air.
The Bad: Men with prostate problems should avoid pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), which can prevent muscles in the prostate and bladder neck from relaxing to allow urine to flow freely. Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), can also slow urine flow as well. Other allergy medicines, such as Allegra, should be substituted.
Men who eat red meat on a daily basis are 250% more likely to develop prostate cancer, the #2 cause of cancer deaths in men, than those who only eat it once a week. Grilled meat is thought to be the worst, as the charring of the meat creates carcinogens. Gross.
How about we take this to the next level?
Our newsletter is like a refreshing cocktail (or mocktail) of LGBTQ+ entertainment and pop culture, served up with a side of eye-candy.
The Really Fun: Massaging your prostate and ejaculating often help keep the prostate free-flowing and in good shape. We’re going to leave that one up to your imagination.
References:
Univ. Maryland Medical Center
Mother Nature
Prostate Cancer Foundation
