The prostate is a gland that plays an important role in the male reproductive system. Enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is common as men age, according to the National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse. While you may have BPH and experience no bothersome symptoms, you may require medical treatment if symptoms such as urinary problems arise. A healthy diet, inclusive of particular foods, may help minimize the progression of BPH and prevent potential complications.
Garlic and Onions
Garlic and onions are members of the allum family--vegetables that contain unique sulfur compounds that enhance the flavor of other foods. According to research published in "Urology" in 2007, incorporating garlic and onions into your diet routinely may also reduce your risk for prostate overgrowth. In the study, the diets and prostate condition of 1,369 Italian hospital patients diagnosed with BPH were tracked and studied from 1991 to 2002. Patients who consumed garlic and onions most frequently exhibited the fewest BPH symptoms when compared to patients who did not. For potentially similar benefits, add fresh, chopped, diced or minced garlic and/or onion to salads and cooked dishes on a consistent basis.
Fruits
Along with colorful vegetables, fruits are prime sources of antioxidants--nutrients that strengthen your body's ability to defend itself from infections and disease. Men who consume rich amounts of fruit regularly tend to exhibit fewer BPH symptoms, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center. Since all fruit varieties contribute unique blends of nutrients, incorporate various types into your meals and snacks routinely. Fruits particularly rich in antioxidants include berries, cherries, citrus fruits, papaya, cantaloupe, kiwi, red plums, avocados, tomatoes and mangos.
Soy
Soybeans are a nutritious legume variety that offer particularly rich amounts of phytonutrients--nutritionally potent plant-derived chemicals--and protein. While additional research is needed, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center, increasing your soy intake and cutting back on zinc-rich sources, such as red meat, may help prevent or reduce the effects of BPH. In addition to whole soy beans, foods rich in soy protein include tofu or soybean curd, soy-based milk, yogurt and cheese, edamame or podded, steamed soybeans, soy nuts and soy-based vegetarian burgers.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are grains that have retained vital nutrient, fiber and protein content during food processing. While additional research is needed to determine the specific effects of whole grains on BPH symptoms, medical experts and authors of "You: On A Diet," Dr. Mehmet Oz and Dr. Michael Roizen, recommend that men concerned with BPH replace refined grain products, such as white bread and enriched pasta, with whole grains. Doing so promotes your prostate and overall health. Examples of nutritious whole grain foods include 100 percent whole grain breads, pasta and cold cereals, steel-cut and old fashioned oatmeal, pearled barley, wild rice, brown rice and air-popped popcorn.
References
- National Kidney and Urologic Disease Information Clearinghouse: Prostate Enlargement: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
- "Urology"; Onion and Garlic Intake and the Odds of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia; Carlotta Galeone; Oct. 2007
- University of Rochester Medical Center: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
- RealAge: Enlarged Prostate Diet
