BPH, or benign prostatic hyperplasia, is a common illness that affects many men as their age advances. While BPH is not usually a serious health problem, it can cause bothersome urinary symptoms that can affect a man's quality of life.

In this article, we'll discuss some tips and strategies that men can use to prevent prostate enlargement and maintain good prostate health.

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT:

Carrying excess weight, especially around the midsection, can increase the risk of BPH. Studies have found that overweight and obese men are more likely to develop BPH and experience more severe urinary symptoms. To maintain a healthy weight, men should focus on eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. They should also limit their intake of saturated fats, processed foods, and sugary drinks. Incorporating regular exercise, such as brisk walking, jogging, or swimming, into their routine can also help reduce the risk of developing prostate enlargement.

EAT A PROSTATE-FRIENDLY DIET:

Certain foods and nutrients can help support prostate health. Men should aim to eat a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Foods that are high in antioxidants, such as tomatoes, berries, and leafy greens, may be especially beneficial for prostate health. Other foods products that may be helpful include:

• Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale, which contain compounds that may help reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
• Fish, which is high in omega-3 fatty acids that may help reduce inflammation and improve prostate health.
• Nuts and seeds, which are rich in zinc and other nutrients that are important for prostate health.

LIMIT ALCOHOL & CAFFEINE INTAKE:

Drinking too much alcohol or caffeine can irritate the bladder and worsen urinary symptoms. Men should aim to limit their intake of these beverages to help improve prostate health and reduce the risk of BPH. In addition, they should drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and help flush out toxins.

PRACTICE GOOD BATHROOM HABITS:

Men should aim to urinate regularly and completely to help reduce the risk of developing BPH. They should also avoid holding in urine for long periods, as this can put pressure on the bladder and prostate. In addition, they should take their time when urinating and fully empty their bladder before leaving the bathroom.

MANAGE STRESS:

Stress can have a negative impact on prostate health. Chronic stress can increase inflammation and weaken the immune system, which can contribute to the development of BPH. Practicing stress-reducing techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, can help improve prostate health and reduce the risk of BPH. Exercise and spending time in nature can also help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

GET REGULAR CHECKUPS:

Men should get regular prostate exams to screen for prostate enlargement and other prostate conditions. Early detection and treatment can help prevent BPH from worsening and reduce the risk of complications. Depending on age and other risk factors, men may need to have a prostate exam every year or every few years.

CONSIDER SUPPLEMENTS:

Some natural supplements, such as saw palmetto and pygeum, have been shown to help reduce the symptoms of BPH. However, before taking any supplements, consult with your doctor because they may interfere with other prescriptions or health issues. In addition, supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so it's important to choose a reputable brand and follow the recommended dosage.

By adopting these healthy lifestyle habits, men can reduce their risk of developing BPH and maintain good prostate health for years to come.

Dr Shyam Varma is a Consultant Laparoscopic/ Robotic Urologist & Renal Transplant Surgeon. He has over 15 years of experience in successfully treating complex urological diseases. His expertise includes diagnosing & treating Kidney stones, prostate enlargement, prostate cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer & incontinence, male infertility & erectile dysfunction.