It is common for older men to experience prostate enlargement. The prostate grows, putting pressure on the urinary tract. Prostate enlargement can cause frequent nighttime urination and difficulty urinating. There are many medical options, including medication or surgery, but dietary modifications can help to reduce the symptoms and slow down the growth of your prostate gland.
Prostate Enlargement can be prevented by eating certain foods
Tomatoes
The lycopene in tomatoes can reduce prostate growth and prostate cancer. Lycopene can be absorbed more readily by the body if it has been cooked. Therefore, cooked tomato products like tomato sauce, tomato puree, or tomato soup, are especially beneficial. The tomatoes are rich in vitamins C and A, potassium and minerals which can boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. Add some tomato sauce to salads, or blend them in smoothies.
Spinach
Spinach contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation, and also protect your body against free radicals. Spinach is also a great source of essential minerals and vitamins, such as vitamin C, A, E, and K. The high concentration of carotenoids such as lutein, zeaxanthin and zeaxanthin in spinach can reduce your risk of prostate cancer. Regularly eating spinach can help balance your hormones, which are important to overall prostate health.
Green Tea
Green tea is rich in catechins, which have shown to lower the risk of prostate tumors and slow the growth of your prostate gland. Regularly drinking green tea can help relieve the symptoms associated with prostate enlargement.
Turmeric
Curcumin is found in turmeric, a spice. The compound curcumin is known to inhibit the growth of cancerous prostate cells, and lower the risk of enlargement of the prostate. Add turmeric to stews or stir-fries to boost your prostate’s health.
Broccoli
Broccoli, a vegetable cruciferous that is rich in sulforaphane. The compound sulforaphane is known to inhibit the growth of cancerous prostate cells, and lower the risk of prostate swelling. Regular broccoli consumption can help to reduce inflammation, which may contribute to prostate growth. Try steaming your broccoli or gently boiling it instead of microwave or stir-frying.
Fish
Fish consumption at least two times a week can reduce the risk of prostate carcinoma. The omega-3 fatty acid content of fish is very high. These acids have anti-inflammatory effects and may help reduce prostate cancer risk. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in salmon, tuna and mackerel.
Berries
Blueberries, strawberries and raspberries contain antioxidants which can reduce inflammation and the risk of prostate growth. Regularly eating a wide variety of fruits and berries can improve your prostate health as well as overall health.
Carrots
Regularly eating carrots can help you increase your beta-carotene intake and offer a range of benefits to a healthy prostrate. Fiber is also abundant in carrots, and can lower cholesterol and inflammation.
Pumpkin Seed
Zinc is an essential mineral for prostate health. It can also help prevent prostate inflammation or enlargement. Pumpkin seeds are rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acid, and vitamin E.
Soybeans
The compounds in soybeans, called isoflavones, can reduce prostate cancer risk and help to inhibit the growth of your prostate gland. Regular consumption of soybeans and soy-based products, such as soymilk or tofu, can improve prostate health.
Nuts, seeds and other products
Nuts and seeds contain healthy fats as well as fiber and vitamins. These nuts and seeds contain minerals which can support prostate health. The prostate is especially benefited by walnuts, sunflower seeds, almonds and pumpkin seeds. Magnesium, which is found in them and helps reduce inflammation within the body has been associated with improved prostate health. Flaxseeds contain lignan, an anti-inflammatory substance that has been proven to lower the risk of prostate cancer.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Sulforaphane is a phytonutrient found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower. The compound protects cells against damage from free radicals, which may lead to cancer. Cruciferous vegetables also contain antioxidants which have proven to reduce tumor growth. Regular consumption of these foods can keep your prostate in good health and lower your cancer risk.
Garlic
Garlic is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Garlic contains allicin which helps reduce prostate cancer risk. Garlic consumption has been shown to reduce prostate cancer risk by 50% according to studies. Garlic can also help reduce LDL cholesterol. This helps to keep your arteries healthy and clear. Garlic may also help to boost the immune system and make it easier for your body fight infections. Add garlic to your meals by adding it in dishes such as soups, salads and sauces.
Legumes
Beans and lentils are rich in lycopene which can help to reduce prostate cancer risk. Also, they are high in fibre and low in fat which helps to maintain a healthy prostate. Legumes are also a great source of zinc which is essential for prostate health.
Soursop
The tropical fruit known as soursop or graviola has shown to be beneficial for health, and may even help to prevent prostate enlargement, BPH.
In some studies [ 1, 2,] it was found that the soursop plant contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, such as flavonoids. They may reduce the inflammation of the prostate, thought to be a factor in BPH.
Soursop may also have an anti-androgenic effect, which means that it can reduce hormone production, such as dihydrotestosterone and testosterone, both of which are responsible for prostate enlargement. In one study, soursop was found to be able to block the 5-alpha reductase enzyme which converts testosterone into DHT.
It is also important to remember that further research is required to understand all the benefits soursop can have on health, and its effect on BPH in particular. Soursop can also interact with some medications and cause side effects for certain individuals. It is therefore important to consult a doctor before using it to treat any condition.
The conclusion of the article is:
Although medical treatment for prostate enlargement is available, dietary modifications can have a positive effect on your prostate. Foods that may help prevent prostate enlargement are tomatoes, spinach, watermelon, soy beans, Brazil nuts and Brazil seeds. These foods are a healthy and delicious way to improve your prostate’s health.