PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) Elevation

What is PSA elevation?

Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is a protein secreted by the prostate gland. It’s primary function is to liquefy semen. PSA is tested with a simple blood test which should be done annually starting at or before the age of 50. There is no normal value, although we like the value to be below 4.0. We also monitor how the PSA changes over time to make sure it is not rising to rapidly. A rise in PSA can indicate prostate cancer, prostate infection or inflammation, or benign growth. If the PSA level is elevated or rises to rapidly a biopsy may be indicated.

Evaluation

If an elevation in your PSA is detected, another PSA is often repeated within a few months with the addition of a free PSA. These values will help the urologist decide if a biopsy is necessary.

Treatment

Treatment is based on your evaluation results.

Diet

  • High in water
  • High in fruits and vegetables
  • High in fiber
  • High in vegetable protein
  • Low in animal protein
  • Low in fat
  • Low in alcohol
  • Low in caffeine

Water

Drink at least 2 liters of water a day. Decaffeinated teas and coffees can count towards the goal level, but beverages that contain caffeine can not.

Fruits

Aim to intake at least 2 whole fruits a day. A variety of fruits (structure and color) should be consumed as well.

Vegetables

Consume at least 4 servings of vegetables a day. A variety of colored vegetables should be selected as well. Aim to have at least 2 servings of green vegetables, 1 serving of orange vegetables and 1 serving of red vegetables each day. White and yellow vegetables should be included when available.

Fiber

Consume plenty of fiber, 25 to 35 grams a day. Sources of fiber include whole grains, bran, vegetables, legumes and fruits.

Vegetable Protein <

Aim to have at least 1 meal a day that includes vegetable protein in cluding soy rather than animal protein (turkey, chicken, fish, eggs, cheese, pork, red meat, etc.).

Low in fat

Fat should be kept at 20% of your diet each day. The sources of the 20% fat should be of monounsaturated fats such as olive oil. Saturated fats should be kept to a minimum.

Sample Meal Plan

Breakfast

  • whole grain cereal
  • milk
  • apple

Lunch

  • whole grain bread
  • animal protein
  • lettuce and tomato
  • carrots
  • mustard

Dinner

  • vegetable protein or soy
  • rice
  • broccoli
  • red and yellow bell peppers

Dessert

  • low fat cottage cheese
  • pear

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