Struggling with an Enlarged Prostate Discover How Your Diet Can Help

1. Struggling with an Enlarged Prostate? Discover How Your Diet Can Help

3. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or enlarged prostate, is a non-cancerous condition that is commonly diagnosed in men aged 50 and older. Although not a serious medical concern, an enlarged prostate can cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as a frequent need to urinate and difficulty in urinating. For mild symptoms, urologists advise lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes, as the first line of treatment. Understanding how dietary choices impact prostate health can empower men to take proactive steps in managing their symptoms.

4. What is an Enlarged Prostate? Enlarged prostate, medically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), refers to an increase in the size of the prostate gland. Due to the location of the prostate between the penis and the bladder in the pelvis region, any significant growth results in increased pressure on the bladder as well as the urethra, causing urinary and ejaculation problems. The cause of an enlarged prostate is not fully understood; however, it is widely linked to hormonal changes, specifically low levels of testosterone and high levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors may also play a role in its development. If left untreated, an enlarged prostate can lead to complications such as bladder stones, blood in urine, urinary tract infections, and kidney damage.

5. What are the Symptoms of an Enlarged Prostate? What are the Symptoms of an Enlarged Prostate? • Increased Urinary Frequency: More frequent trips to the restroom • Difficulty Starting Urination: Discomfort or struggle when initiating urination • Weak Urinary Stream: Noticeable reduction in the strength of the urine flow • Interrupted Urination: Inconsistency in urine flow during urination • Frequent Nighttime Urination: Repeatedly waking up at night to urinate • Urinary Incontinence: Unintentional urine leakage due to loss of bladder control • Post-Ejaculation Pain: Discomfort or pain after ejaculation • Painful Urination: Stinging or burning sensation during urination • Urinary Retention: Inability to completely empty the bladder

6. How Does Diet Affect an Enlarged Prostate? Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and diet may be related because diet affects hormone production and secretion. A healthy diet with whole grains, fruits, cruciferous vegetables, healthy fats, lean meat, and low-fat dairy products can help support hormonal balance and reduce inflammation linked to prostate enlargement. Additionally, certain nutrients in food may improve urinary function and overall prostate health. Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are effective in minimising oxidative stress and inflammation in the prostate. However, there are no conclusive studies to establish a direct relationship between diet and an enlarged prostate.

7. Which Foods are Good to Manage Enlarged Prostate? Here are some foods that may help shrink an enlarged prostate gland: • Tomatoes • Citrus • Nuts and Seeds • Berries • Broccoli • Cabbage and Cauliflower • Legumes • Fish

8. Which Foods Should Be Avoided with an Enlarged Prostate? • Salt • Processed Foods • Caffeine • Alcohol • Red Meat • Sugar and Artificial Sweeteners • Vitamin and Mineral Supplements

9. What are the Lifestyle Measures Beyond Diet to Manage Enlarged Prostate? Managing an enlarged prostate (BPH) involves more than dietary changes. Doctors take a holistic approach that includes education, periodic monitoring, and lifestyle adjustments to enhance quality of life:1. Education About the Condition Doctors prioritise educating patients about BPH and explaining its causes, symptoms, and progression. A well-informed patient feels less anxious and more empowered to manage their condition. Education also promotes better adherence to treatment plans and lifestyle adjustments. 2. Reassurance A critical aspect of medical care is reassuring patients that BPH symptoms are not indicative of prostate cancer. By addressing this common concern, doctors alleviate fear and help patients focus on effective strategies to manage their symptoms confidently. 3. Periodic Monitoring Doctors recommend regular check-ups to closely monitor the condition’s progression and the effectiveness of treatments. These follow-ups allow timely adjustments to management strategies, ensuring optimal care, early detection of complications, and improved patient outcomes.

10. Final Thoughts An enlarged prostate is a common condition in males that can often be effectively managed with a combination of lifestyle changes and medical interventions. Even though diet plays a crucial role in relieving symptoms of BPH, it is not a replacement for medical treatment. At Graphic Era Hospital, our urologists develop comprehensive enlarged prostate or BPH treatment plans, including medications, dietary advice, and minimally invasive procedures, tailored to the patient’s medical condition, age, lifestyle, and overall health. A holistic approach ensures better patient outcomes. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of BPH, consult a urologist at Graphic Era Hospital. Call us on our toll-free number 1800-889-7351, request a callback, or book an appointment online.