The American Urological Association (AUA) has presented three new scientific studies highlighting the benefits of plant-based diets for men’s health - specifically urological health in men. Their findings show plant-based diets were associated with a decreased risk of erectile dysfunction, lower rates of prostate-specific antigens (PSA), a marker of the risk of total and fatal prostate cancer.  

1. Plant-based diets and lower PSA rates

Researchers found a link between higher intake of plant-based foods and lower PSA levels in men. 

PSA is made by the prostate gland, and high levels of PSA is generally recognized as a sign of prostate cancer. It is also a sign of noncancerous health issues related to the prostate, such as prostate enlargement and inflammation.

2. Certain plant foods and lower prostate cancer risk

Another study focused on the beneficial role of specific vegan foods with a lower risk of prostate cancer. One of these foods which seem to have an anti-prostate cancer effect is tomatoes.

3. Eat plants to prevent erectile dysfunction

Researchers also found that those who ate a diet rich in healthy vegan foods had a decreased risk of erectile dysfunction. 

The latest evidence adds to the overwhelming bed of data confirming the benefits of plant-based diets to human health, from reducing the risk of heart disease to bolstering the presence of gut microbes that are linked to lower obesity rates and diabetes.