Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. However, citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and tangerines can help fight prostate cancer as well as other conditions that affect the prostate, according to the health site. Healthline (America).
The nutrients in citrus fruits help prevent prostate cancer in men
The prostate is a small gland weighing about 15-25 grams located below the bladder. This gland plays an important role in the male reproductive system, supporting the functioning of the testicles and other glands.
The prostate gland takes sperm and some other fluids to create semen. The contraction of the prostate helps semen move into the urethra during ejaculation.
Like many other organs in the body, the prostate is susceptible to disease. Currently, experts cannot determine the exact cause of prostate cancer. However, many studies show that nutrients in citrus fruits can help protect the prostate and prevent prostate cancer.
The anti-cancer properties of citrus fruits are mainly due to their high content of flavonoid antioxidants. This is a natural compound that helps reduce inflammation and protect against cell damage caused by free radicals. These two factors contribute significantly to cancer.
The peels of citrus fruits are especially rich in flavonoids. In a study published in the journal Food & Function, scientists used mice to test the effectiveness of flavonoids extracted from citrus fruit peels on prostate cancer cells. The results showed that flavonoids help reduce tumor size.
In addition, a study in the journal International Journal of Cancer analyzed the health data of more than 42.000 people in Japan. The research team found that people who regularly eat citrus have a lower risk of cancer, especially pancreatic and prostate cancer.
In addition to preventing prostate cancer, citrus fruits may also help reduce the risk of other prostate-related conditions such as prostatitis. The disease often appears in men between 30 and 50 years old, causing inflammation and pain in the prostate, according to Healthline.
