For many men, an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH) becomes part of daily life. Symptoms such as frequent urination, dribbling, and a weak stream may impact comfort and sleep. Managing these symptoms begins with understanding various aspects of lifestyle, and diet is a significant part of this approach. Here’s how adjusting your eating habits may support overall prostate and urinary health:
What to Eat for Prostate Support
A balanced diet rich in specific nutrients can play a key role in maintaining prostate health. Incorporating foods with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may help reduce discomfort. By emphasizing a nutrient-dense approach, you can actively promote better prostate health.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables add color, flavor, and a range of beneficial nutrients to your meals. They provide fiber, antioxidants, and hydration, which help with digestion and support your urinary system. Tomatoes are rich in nutrients, while berries, leafy greens, and carrots contribute a mix of vitamins and minerals.
Lean Proteins
Protein is a core part of any balanced diet, but sources matter. Lean meats like chicken and turkey, as well as fish like salmon, and plant-based options provide body-building nutrients without excessive saturated fat. Some men find that prioritizing fish over red meat supports prostate health as well as heart health.
Whole Grains
Instead of white bread, white rice, or sugary breakfast cereals, opt for whole grains like oatmeal, quinoa, brown rice, and whole-wheat pasta. Whole grains help maintain stable blood sugar and give you sustained energy throughout the day. The extra fiber improves digestive and urinary comfort.
What Foods to Limit or Avoid
Limiting processed foods, such as packaged snacks and sugary desserts, helps manage an enlarged prostate, as they often contain unhealthy trans fats and excess sugar. Reducing your intake of high-sodium foods, like processed meats and canned soups, can help support healthy blood pressure and reduce water retention. Additionally, it’s wise to avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
Red Meat and Full-Fat Dairy
Frequent consumption of red or processed meats, as well as high-fat dairy products like whole milk or cream, might be linked to increased inflammation in the body. Lighter, plant- or fish-based meals may be a gentler alternative for urinary health.
Caffeine, Alcohol, and Salty Foods
Caffeine and alcohol act as diuretics and may increase the urge to urinate, which can be exceptionally bothersome at night or during long meetings. Limiting coffee, certain teas, energy drinks, and alcoholic beverages could help some men manage urgency and frequency.
High-sodium snacks, canned soups, and processed foods can raise blood pressure. They can also intensify urinary symptoms. Keep an eye on the sodium content, and instead, flavor your food with herbs or spices.
How to Manage Hydration and Weight
Drinking enough water each day helps hydrate tissues and flush the urinary tract. While it may seem counterintuitive, restricting fluids often backfires and may even worsen symptoms. Sip water throughout the day and cut back only in the hours before bedtime if nocturia (nighttime urination) is bothersome. Weight plays a part as well. Carrying extra pounds sometimes adds pressure to the bladder and may increase BPH symptoms.
Contact a Urologist to Treat an Enlarged Prostate
Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy weight are practical steps you can take to support prostate comfort. If you’re experiencing bothersome symptoms or looking for more personalized guidance, reach out to a urology professional. They can work with you to develop a comprehensive plan tailored to your needs. Take the next step and schedule a visit with a trusted urology provider today.
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