The prostate is a small gland in the male reproductive system that is responsible for making semen. Prostate problems are fairly common in aging men. The National Cancer Institute estimates that as many as 16 percent of all men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer sometime in their lives. Even if it's not cancer, an enlarged prostate can cause you pain as you attempt to pass urine. Whether you've had prostate problems in the past or are simply trying to facilitate a healthy prostate, you can lower you risk of problems by leading a healthy lifestyle.
Step 1
See your doctor for regular prostate screenings as part of your regular medical testing and screening schedule. Prostate screenings can detect problems in the prostate, whether it be an enlarged prostate causing urinary problems, or the beginnings of prostate cancer.
Step 2
Schedule an appointment with your doctor any time you detect changes in your prostate health, suggests the National Cancer Institute. Some signs of a changing prostate include trouble urinating, passing more or less urine than is normal for you or a burning sensation when you urinate. These could be the signs of a serious prostate problem that will need immediate medical attention.
Step 3
Lose weight if you're overweight. Being overweight heightens your risk for a number of cancers, including prostate cancer, warns the Prostate Health Guide website. By eating a healthier diet and exercising more, you can lower your weight, restore your prostate health and reduce your risk for prostate cancer, along with a number of other cancers.
Step 4
Eat a heart-healthy diet, which means eating plenty of fiber, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, omega-three fatty acids and lean protein. A study performed by University of Michigan Medical Center and published in "The American Journal of Medicine" found a direct correlation between heart health and prostate health. In short, if your heart is healthy, there's a better chance that you'll maintain a healthy prostate as well.
Step 5
Maintain a healthy sexual life and ejaculate often, whether alone or with a partner. A landmark study performed in 2003 by the The Cancer Council Victoria with results published in the "British Journal of Urology International" found that frequent ejaculation can decrease a man's risk for prostate cancer. By maintaining your sex life and ejaculating often, you could be doing your part to prevent prostate problems in the future.
References
- National Cancer Institute: Introduction to the Prostate
- Prostate Health Guide: Prevention
- "The American Journal of Medicine": Educating Patients About Lifestyle Modifications for Prostate Health; Mark A. Moyad, MD, MPHa, Franklin C. Lowe, MD, MPHb; Aug. 2008
- "British Journal of Urology International": Sexual Factors and Prostate Cancer; Giles GG, Severi G, English DR, McCredie MR, Borland R, Boyle P, Hopper JL.; Aug. 2003
