Foods to Avoid with Enlarged Prostate | Reduce Symptoms and Risk of Prostate Cancer

By rjoachim | October 5, 2023
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Frequent urination, especially at night
  • Weak urine stream
  • Urine retention
  • A feeling of fullness in the bladder, even after urinating

While there is no cure for BPH, there are a number of things that men can do to manage their symptoms and reduce their risk of complications. One important step is to eat a healthy diet. Some foods can aggravate BPH symptoms, while others may help to relieve them.

Foods to avoid with an enlarged prostate

  • Red meat and processed meats: Red meat and processed meats are high in saturated fat and cholesterol, which can increase inflammation and worsen BPH symptoms.
  • Dairy products: Dairy products are a good source of calcium, but they can also contain a lot of saturated fat. Men with BPH should limit their intake of dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and ice cream.
  • Caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine and alcohol can irritate the bladder and worsen BPH symptoms. Men with BPH should avoid or limit their intake of these substances.
  • Spicy foods: Spicy foods can also irritate the bladder and worsen BPH symptoms. Men with BPH should avoid or limit their intake of spicy foods, such as chili peppers, salsa, and hot sauce.

Foods that may help relieve BPH symptoms

  • Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are low in saturated fat and cholesterol and high in fiber, which can help to reduce inflammation and improve digestion. Men with BPH should eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, such as apples, bananas, berries, broccoli, carrots, and leafy greens.
  • Whole grains: Whole grains are a good source of fiber and other nutrients that can help to improve digestion and reduce inflammation. Men with BPH should choose whole grains over refined grains, such as brown rice over white rice and whole-wheat bread over white bread.
  • Fish: Fish is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to reduce inflammation. Men with BPH should eat fish two to three times per week.
  • Green tea: Green tea contains antioxidants that can help to reduce inflammation and improve prostate health. Men with BPH may want to consider drinking two to three cups of green tea per day.

It is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all diet for men with BPH. The best way to determine which foods are right for you is to talk to your doctor.

In addition to eating a healthy diet, there are a number of other things that men with BPH can do to manage their symptoms and reduce their risk of complications. These include:

  • Exercise regularly: Exercise can help to reduce inflammation and improve prostate health. Men with BPH should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put additional strain on the prostate gland and worsen BPH symptoms. Men with BPH should aim to maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
  • Manage stress: Stress can worsen BPH symptoms. Men with BPH should find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, yoga, or meditation.

If you are experiencing symptoms of an enlarged prostate, it is important to see your doctor. They can help you to develop a plan to manage your symptoms and reduce your risk of complications.

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