Nearly all men develop an enlarged prostate as they age, according to "Foundations of Nursing." As the prostate enlarges it places pressure on the urethra, making urination difficult. Though an enlarged prostate is often benign, you should visit your doctor to rule out prostate cancer and other medical conditions. "Contemporary Nutrition" suggests eating certain foods to enhance prostate health.
As with any alternative treatments, consult your physician prior to adding any of these foods to your diet in an attempt to reduce the size of your prostate.
Soy
Soy products, including tofu, soy milk and soy nuts, are helpful in reducing the symptoms and size of an enlarged prostate, according to "Prescription for Natural Cures." Soy contains phytosterols, which is a plant-based compound similar in molecular structure to cholesterol, according to "Foundations of Nursing." Phytosterols, which prevent cholesterol from being absorbed in the intestine, have been shown to decrease a man's risk of an enlarged prostate and have the potential to aid in the shrinking of an enlarged prostate, according to "Contemporary Nutrition."
Nuts
"Contemporary Nutrition" states that many nuts contain vitamin E and selenium. Vitamin E and selenium have been shown to improve cell turnover and prostate health, which some experts say may prevent an enlarged prostate from continuing to grow, according to "Foundations of Nursing." In addition to these benefits, some research exists, according to "Prescription for Natural Cures," that may suggest that foods high in vitamin E and selenium can reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Nuts that are high in vitamin E and selenium include Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, walnuts, almonds and peanuts, reports "Contemporary Nutrition."
Cold-Water Fish
Cold-water fish, such as mackerel, halibut, sardines, tuna and salmon are high in omega-3 fatty acids, according to "Contemporary Nutrition." Omega-3 fatty acids reduce tumor growth and inflammation, which may reduce the size of an enlarged prostate, according to "Prescription for Natural Cures." Some studies suggest that regular consumption of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for overall prostate health, according to "Foundations of Nursing," and may also aid in the prevention of prostate cancer.
References
- "Foundations of Nursing"; Lois White, Gena Duncan and Wendy Baumle; 2010
- "Contemporary Nutrition," Gordon M. Wardlaw and Anne M Smith; 2007
- "Prescription for Natural Cures"; James Balch and Mark Stengler; 2004
