Dr. Brian Steixner, CEO of Popstar Labs, discusses the importance of diet and avoidance of microplastics to promote good prostate and reproductive health.
Brian Steixner, M.D.
CEO, Popstar Labs
How does diet influence prostate health, and are there specific nutrients that individuals should prioritize for maintaining optimal prostate function?
Diet plays a significant role in prostate health. Certain nutrients and dietary patterns have been associated with either promoting prostate health or increasing the risk of prostate issues such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer.
When it comes to specifics, certain nutrients are correlated with positive impacts on prostate health. The first is lycopene, commonly found in tomatoes, watermelon, pink grapefruit, and other red fruits and vegetables. Lycopene is an antioxidant linked to a reduced risk of prostate cancer. Next are selenium and vitamin E, which have antioxidant properties that may help protect against prostate cancer. Selenium is an essential mineral present in Brazil nuts, fish, poultry, and eggs, while vitamin E can be found in nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables. When it comes to impacted prostate size and symptoms of an enlarging prostate, zinc is critical. Zinc, found in meat, shellfish, legumes, seeds, and nuts, is essential for prostate function and has been associated with reducing symptoms of BPH.
Outside of specific ingredients, the impact of dietary patterns on prostate health has been studied. A Mediterranean diet — rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and healthy fats like olive oil — has been associated with numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of prostate cancer. In addition, a plant-based diet emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes is linked to a lower risk of prostate cancer and reduced symptoms of an enlarging prostate.
Certain foods should be avoided when focused on prostate health. Some studies suggest that a high intake of full-fat dairy products may be associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer. The same goes for a high consumption of red and processed meats. Finally, diets high in sugar and alcohol can contribute to obesity, which is a risk factor for prostate issues.
What are the potential risks of microplastic exposure to prostate health and male reproductive function based on current research?
Microplastics, tiny plastic particles less than 5mm in size, have raised concerns about their potential impact on human health, including prostate health and male reproductive function. While research is still evolving, recent studies have highlighted the mechanism and adverse effects.
First, it is important to point out the prostate is a small organ critical for male reproduction. It provides many of the nutrients and enzymes sperm need to survive their journey toward the egg. Microplastics can contain or adsorb harmful chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, known endocrine disruptors. These chemicals can mimic or interfere with hormone functions, potentially impacting prostate development and increasing the risk of prostate diseases, including cancer. Second, microplastics are linked to inflammation and oxidative stress. They induce inflammation and oxidative stress in tissues, leading to the development of various prostate conditions, including BPH and prostate cancer.
When it comes to their impact on male reproductive function, animal studies have shown that exposure to microplastics and associated chemicals can negatively affect sperm quality, reducing sperm count, motility, and viability. Impaired sperm quality is a significant factor in male infertility. In addition, chemicals associated with microplastics can disrupt the endocrine system, leading to imbalances in testosterone and other hormones critical for male reproductive health. Hormonal disruptions can affect libido, erectile function, and overall reproductive capacity. Finally, microplastics can potentially lead to developmental effects. Prenatal and early-life exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in microplastics can affect the development of the male reproductive system. Such exposure may lead to long-term reproductive health issues.
In your experience, have you observed any trends or patterns in patients’ urological health that could be linked to diet or environmental exposures like microplastics?
Yes, several trends and patterns in patients’ urological health have been linked to diet and environmental exposures, including microplastics. Many of these have been well-known for decades and others are emerging trends. For quite some time, we have known that diets high in animal protein, sodium, and oxalates can increase the risk of kidney stones due to higher levels of uric acid and calcium oxalate. Insufficient fluid intake can lead to concentrated urine, increasing the risk of kidney stones and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Diets high in processed foods, which often contain additives and preservatives, have been linked to bladder cancer. Some studies suggest that vegetarian diets may reduce the risk of kidney stones, although the evidence is mixed.
It has only been recently that the environmental impacts of microplastics have been studied, and the emerging data does not look good. We are starting to see our younger patients, of childbearing age, focused on microplastics and sperm health.
What dietary recommendations do you typically provide to patients to support prostate health and minimize potential risks associated with environmental contaminants such as microplastics?
To support prostate health and minimize risks associated with environmental contaminants like microplastics, some common sense goes a long way. Coupled with some specific changes, patients can go a long way to mitigate potential risks. I tell all patients to increase fruit and vegetable intake and aim for a variety of colors to ensure a range of nutrients. Tomatoes (rich in lycopene), cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and Brussels sprouts), and leafy greens are particularly beneficial. Focus on sources of omega-3 fatty acids such as fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), flaxseeds, and walnuts. Limit saturated fats and trans fats found in red and processed meats, fried foods, and high-fat dairy products. Choose whole grains over refined grains. Examples include brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat, barley, and oats. Opt for lean meats like poultry and fish. Consider plant-based proteins such as beans, lentils, and tofu. Incorporate nuts like almonds, walnuts, and seeds such as flaxseeds and chia seeds into your diet for their beneficial fats and nutrients. Reducing consumption of red meats and processed meats, like sausages and bacon, can lower the risk of prostate issues. Drink plenty of water and green tea, which is high in antioxidants and has been linked to a reduced risk of prostate cancer.
When it comes to minimizing risks from environmental contaminants, choose organic produce and meats when possible to reduce exposure to pesticides and other contaminants. Use a water filter to reduce exposure to contaminants that may be present in tap water, including microplastics. Reduce the use of plastic containers and packaging. Opt for glass, stainless steel, or other safer alternatives. Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers to reduce the risk of chemicals leaching into food. Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables to remove pesticide residues and other contaminants. Peeling fruits and vegetables can help reduce exposure to surface contaminants.
How important is ongoing research in understanding the impact of microplastics on urological health, and what do you believe are the critical next steps in addressing this issue?
Ongoing research on the impact of microplastics on urological health is crucial. Microplastics are pervasive in the environment, and humans are exposed to them through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact. Understanding how these particles accumulate in the body, particularly the urinary system, is essential to assess potential health risks. The chemical composition of microplastics and the pollutants they adsorb can have toxic effects. Research is needed to determine how these toxins interact with urological tissues and whether they contribute to diseases such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or cancer. Microplastics can interact with biological systems at the cellular and molecular levels. Studying these interactions can reveal mechanisms of toxicity and identify biomarkers for early detection of urological damage. Chronic exposure to microplastics may have long-term health consequences. Longitudinal studies are necessary to evaluate the potential cumulative effects on the urological system over time. Research findings are critical for risk assessment and developing regulations to limit microplastic exposure. Policymakers need scientific evidence to implement effective measures to protect public health.
In the future, we need to conduct large-scale epidemiological studies to quantify human exposure to microplastics and identify the primary sources of exposure. We must investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which microplastics affect urological health, including studies on oxidative stress, inflammation, and genetic damage. In addition, we need to develop and use animal models and in vitro systems to study the impact of microplastics on the urological system, which can provide insights into potential health effects in humans.
At the same time, we need to increase public awareness about the sources and risks of microplastic exposure and promote strategies to reduce personal exposure, such as using less plastic and supporting environmental cleanup efforts. Finally, we need to advocate for stronger regulations on plastic production, use, and disposal to reduce the prevalence of microplastics in the environment. By addressing these areas, researchers and policymakers can better understand and mitigate the potential risks of microplastics to urological health and overall human well-being.
