Enlarged prostate: Does diet play a role?

An enlarged prostate is a health issue that becomes more common with age. The prostate is a small gland that helps make semen. It’s found just below the bladder. And it often gets bigger as you get older.

By age 50, half of men will have symptoms of an enlarged prostate, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH. Common symptoms include feeling an urgent need to urinate or needing to urinate often.

Making some healthy changes to your diet and exercise habits may help you manage the symptoms. For example, try to:

• Avoid liquids for a few hours before going to bed or before going out.
• Cut back on drinks with caffeine and alcohol. These substances can make you feel like you need to urinate more often.
• Eat lots of different vegetables every day.
• Eat a few servings of fruit daily. Be sure to include citrus fruits such as oranges or grapefruits.
• Do some moderate to vigorous exercises or activities, such as brisk walking, biking or playing sports, most days of the week.
• Stay at a healthy body weight.

What type of protein you eat may matter. Some studies found a higher risk of enlarged prostate in men who ate more red meat. Experts recommend getting protein from plant sources, such as beans. They also suggest eating fish high in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that promote good heart health. Good sources include salmon and sardines.

Some studies have looked at treating enlarged prostate with dietary supplements and herbal therapies. For example, there are studies on saw palmetto, lycopene and beta-sitosterol. Results have been mixed. Ask your healthcare professional for advice before trying a supplement.

The bottom line? Healthy habits may help people with an enlarged prostate. Regular exercise, watching your waistline, eating vegetables and fruits, and limiting saturated fats may ease symptoms. These habits also can lower your risk of erectile dysfunction, diabetes and heart disease.