Lactose and Prostate Health

Since the 1970’s global research has found a correlation between milk and prostate cancer. Longigated research studies over decades have found a link between increased risk of prostate cancer and milk consumption. According to the World Cancer Research Fund with association with the American Institute for Cancer Research, habitual dairy consumption increases prostate cancer risk by 2.5 times.

The Research

After decades of research, in 1997, the World Cancer Research Fund and American Institute for Cancer Research publically concluded that dairy products were a possible cancer-causer. Following this, in 2000, a Harvard Health study published similar results. This study tested 20,885 men over 11 years. They concluded that 2 1/2 servings of dairy every day increased man’s cancer risk by 34 percent. This was compared to men who consumed a half or less serving.

Dairy & Men’s Hormones

Finding the link between lactose and prostate cancer was the first step. Now, medical researchers are looking for scientific reasoning: what happens in our body when we digest and process lactose. Researchers have found that it affects male hormones. Lactose increases an “insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1)” in the blood. This growth factor is a booster to cancer growth. It is normal to have some of this compound in the blood, but lactose exacerbates the amount, resulting in cancer, specifically in the prostate.

Calcium

Although calcium is beneficial to our bone strength, too much of it can harm the body’s vitamin D count. Without sufficient amounts of vitamin D, our body is more at risk for cancer.

High Fat

Most dairy products that contain lactose are also high in fat. Those who consume excess fat are more likely to have their sex hormones negatively affected. The levels of these sex hormones are major key players in the developments of cancer.

Taking Action

Taking control of your diet can improve your sexual health and decrease your risk of cancer. If you need motivation and guidance, discussing your anxieties with a sexual health expert can lead to major positive change in your overall health. Taking action in regards to your health can lead lead to increased satisfaction mentally, physically, and sexually. Dr. Elist is a leading urologist with over 30 years of experience. His team can help you create a roadmap to get your health on track.