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Nobel Hygiene

Have you ever wondered how your diet can affect your prostate? We spoke to Dr. Salim Shaikh, an expert in nutrition, who believes that it can make all the difference! We have shared our learnings from the conversation in this blog with you.

Let's look at two different types of diets: The Oriental diet (from countries like Japan, China, and Thailand) and the Western (American) diet. Even though both diets are of places with lots of people and big cities, men in Western countries are way more likely (six times more likely!) to have prostate, heart, and cancer problems. And guess what the reason is? Their diet!

The oriental diet consists of seafoods, leafy greens, vegetables, fermented foods, moderate portions of egg, poultry and rarely ever red meats. Whereas the western diet is typically low in fruits and vegetables and high in red meats, canned foods, foods high in sodium and trans fats, etc.

Diet And an Enlarged Prostate

The prostate gland is located just below the bladder in men. Its main function is to produce seminal fluid. This fluid is released along with the sperm during ejaculation and helps sperm reach the female egg for fertilization.

The prostate gland is controlled by male sex hormones, including testosterone. And in the prostate, testosterone is converted into another hormone called di-hydro-testosterone (DHT). When DHT hormones are present in excess, it can cause the cells in the prostate gland to grow or enlarge at an abnormally fast speed.

Half of men over 60 years of age suffer from the symptoms of an enlarged prostate or BPH. This is because as men age, the prostate gland keeps growing until it starts putting pressure on the urethra and obstruct the flow of urine.

This is the part where diet comes in. Certain foods and drinks are known to have an impact on the prostate gland because of their impact on testosterone and other hormones.

And as Dr. Salim Shaikh said, the western diet – a diet high in meat and dairy products – can increase the risk of prostate enlargement and cancer. And a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can keep your prostate healthy.

Best Foods to Eat for Enlarged Prostate

Enlarged Prostate Diet

Here’s a list of foods to eat for a healthy prostate:

Sesame Seeds

Starting this list with sesame seeds – a rich source of zinc. According to a study in the Indian Journal of Urology, the mineral zinc is essential to the health of the prostate. And it’s also proven that men with enlarged prostate and prostate cancer have 75% lower levels of zinc in their bodies than those with a healthy prostate.

Zinc supplements are a reasonable option, but zinc that comes from foods is easier to absorb for the body. Almonds, adzuki beans and pumpkin seeds are some other good sources of zinc. So, help your body by snacking on these seeds and beans.

Indian Mackerel

Indian Mackerel (Bangda) is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. A recent study found that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation and prevent the growth and spread of prostate cancer cells. The study has also suggested that deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids may be a contributing factor to prostate problems.

If you’re not a fan of fish, munch on some walnuts, chia seeds, or flax seeds.

Capsicum

According to recent research, vitamin C found in vegetables may play a role in fighting enlarged prostate or BPH. Capsicum has the highest vitamin C content of any food! One cup (165 g) of raw capsicum contains 200% of your daily required intake of vitamin C. Kale, broccoli, cauliflower and Brussel sprouts are some other vegetables rich in vitamin C.

Walnuts

Walnuts are rich in beta-sitosterol, a chemical found in plants thought to reduce symptoms associated with enlarged prostate. Besides walnuts, some other foods rich in beta-sitosterol include soybeans, avocados and pumpkin seeds.

Soya Foods

Soybean isoflavones found in soya foods prevent the growth of an enlarged prostate. Soymilk, tempeh, edamame, tofu and soy yogurt are some soya foods high in soybean isoflavones.

Berries

Berries are top foods for enlarged prostate, so include them in your enlarged prostate diet regularly. Berries like strawberries, blackberries and blueberries are not only high in vitamin C content, but also powerful antioxidants that combat free radicals. Free radicals are agents that can contribute to cancer formation in the body.

Treating enlarged prostate with dietary and lifestyle changes is the first line of treatment your doctor will recommend to you. But a good, enlarged prostate or BPH diet is more than just eating good foods. It also means avoiding certain foods that are not good for the prostate. Cut short regular consumption of foods like red meat, dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, and salt.  See you again in another blog!

Frequently Asked Questions about Enlarged Prostate Diet

1.What foods are good for an enlarged prostate?

Here’s a list of foods to eat for enlarged prostate:

  • Sesame seeds, almonds, pumpkin seeds

  • Indian Mackerel, Indian Salmon

  • Capsicum, kale, cauliflower

  • Avocadoes

  • Tofu, soymilk, tempeh

  • Strawberries, blackberries, blueberries

2.Can prostate be cured by itself?

No! If you notice any symptoms of enlarged prostate or BPH, it is necessary that you speak with your doctor immediately and discuss the matter with them. BPH is a progressive disease, meaning its symptoms can get worse over time if left untreated.

3.How can I treat my prostate at home?

Some strategies for managing enlarged prostate at home:

  • Follow a prostate-friendly diet

  • Quit smoking and alcohol consumption

  • Try pelvic exercises

  • Try bladder training exercises

  • Empty the bladder completely when urinating

  • Avoid medications that can worsen symptoms

Most importantly, ask your doctor for advice on lifestyle and dietary changes as per your case.

4.What food is not good for an enlarged prostate?

here is a list of foods to avoid with enlarged prostate:

  • Red meat

  • Dairy products

  • Caffeine

  • Alcohol

  • Sodium