Testicles are oval shaped sex glands, which are located in a sac called scrotum present just below the penis. A malignant tumor in the testicle is known as testicular cancer. Men in the age group of 15 to 35 years are at high risk of this cancer. Some of the symptoms of testicular cancer are lumps in any of the testicles, enlarged testicles, fluid retention in the scrotum, heaviness in the scrotum, pain the lower abdomen and groin and lower back pain. It is essential to consult a doctor if any of these symptoms are noticed. The doctor will examine the testicles and may conduct an X-ray, ultrasound scan, or CT scan to diagnose cancer.
Cancer often occurs due to a genetic mutation and its exact cause is undetermined till date. There is no fixed diet that prevents testicular cancer, but consuming certain foods can reduce the risk of the same.
- Antioxidant-rich food
Consuming foods rich in antioxidants helps to reduce the inflammation which leads to cancer. Some sources of anti-oxidants are brightly colored fruits and vegetables such as beetroot, carrots, bell peppers, sweet potatoes, organic tomatoes, cherries, berries, pomegranates, and grapes. - Selenium
Consuming food rich in selenium such as Brazil nuts, wild salmon, shrimp, and sardines helps to reduce the chances of testicular cancer occurring. Selenium is a trace mineral that helps the cells to repair their DNA and stops the spread of cancer. - Curcumin
Curcumin is the principal component found in turmeric. Curcumin is highly effective in safeguarding the body against cancer. It has the ability to slow the growth of tumors, prevent DNA damage, normalize cell growth, promote programmed cancer cell death, improve the body’s ability to detect cancer cells and inhibit cancer stem cells. Add turmeric to your food or consume turmeric milk daily for it to be effective. - Onions and garlic
Onions and garlic protect the testicles from oxidative damage. The sulfur compounds present in garlic improves the functioning of the immune system and reduces the risk of cancer. - Vitamin B5
Vitamin B5 improves the testicular function, increases the level of testosterone in the blood and improves sperm motility. Vitamin B5 can be found in sweet potatoes, avocado, lentils, peas, and Shiitake mushrooms. - Apricots
Consuming apricots regularly can protect the testicles from damage caused by over-consumption of alcohol and from the effect of low range X-rays. - Zinc
Zinc is integral in protecting the testicles from cancer. Some sources of zinc are pumpkin seeds, lamb, beef and oysters. - Whole grains
Whole grains consist of valuable vitamins, minerals, fiber and protein, which are essential for testicular health. Whole grains have a low-glycemic index and help to keep diabetes and other conditions in check. Consume whole grains such as oatmeal, brown rice, quinoa, and air-popped popcorn to stay protected against testicular cancer.
Consuming these foods improves the body’s defense against dangerous diseases like cancer. It provides the body with the essential nutrients and strengthens the body’s immune system.
