The Anti-BPH Diet

Over the course of a man’s lifetime there is a very good chance that they will develop the symptoms of an enlarged prostate or BPH. These symptoms can disrupt daily life and include waking up to urinate at night (nocturia), urgency and frequency of urination, and retention of urine in the bladder—a constant feeling of needing to urinate. While we don’t know the cause of prostatic tissue enlargement, we do know that age is by far the greatest risk factor. There are, however, other lifestyle changes that men can implement in their lives to minimize the effects of BPH. Chief among these is losing excess weight through improved dietary choices.

We should all be concerned with our diet as we age, especially because our ability to stay active and burn fat diminishes over the course of time. Reducing our consumption of foods high in saturated fat and added sugar can help us lose weight and mitigate some of the symptoms of BPH. Staying away from processed foods and making dining out a treat rather than a daily activity is a great first step. Choosing a diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, fruit and vegetables is the best way to continue a new and healthier lifestyle.

Men who change their approach in what they drink can also give themselves a better chance of living a life free of lower urinary tract symptoms.  For example, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks are diuretics, which stimulate the production of urine. This can, in patients with an enlarged prostate, increase the frequency and urgency of their voiding needs. Further, many alcoholic and caffeinated drinks are high in sugar, which can lead to other conditions that promote obesity.

While there is no definitive link showing that an improved diet alone can resolve BPH, healthier dietary lifestyle choices can mitigate some of the most uncomfortable symptoms of BPH.