The Facts

• According to 2006 statistics from the American Cancer Society, over 230,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer in the U.S. each year, and 27,000 die of the disease annually. Additionally, 70 percent of American men will suffer from benign prostastic hyperplasia, or BPH, otherwise known as an enlarged prostate, by the time they reach age 70.
  
  

Vitamin D

• With age comes an increased vitamin D deficiency, along with a higher risk of prostate cancer. Evidence indicates that vitamin D may slow the growth of advanced prostate cancer. The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for vitamin D is 800 to 1,000 IU daily in the fall and winter, and 400 to 800 IU a day in the spring and summer.
  
  

Vitamin E

• Although vitamin E ingested through foods is absorbed by the body more efficiently than supplements, both forms have been found to inhibit the growth of cancerous prostate cells. The Institute of Medicine, part of the Academy of Sciences, recommends 15 mg, or 22 IU, a day.
  
  

Zinc

• There is a high amount of zinc in the prostate gland, which may help it to fight infection. Shrinkage of the prostate overgrowth has be attributed to a daily dose of 50 to 100 mg of zinc. The RDA for zinc levels suggest 15 mg daily, however, so check with a physician before consuming more than the recommended daily dose.
  
  

Selenium

• Selenium works closely with vitamin E to repair damaged cells and cause abnormal cells to die off. The Institute of Medicine recommends 55 mcg per day, the usual amount found in over-the-counter multivitamins designed for men.
  
  

Warnings

• Mega-dosing on over-the-counter supplements can be toxic.