Foods To Decrease Prostate Swelling

The prostate gland plays a significant role in the male reproductive system, helping to produce the semen that carries sperm. Prostate swelling can be a factor in conditions such as prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostate cancer or impotence. Adjusting your diet to include prostate-friendly foods can reduce swelling and promote overall body health. Maintaining a healthy weight may also improve your prostate condition, reports MayoClinic.com. Consult your doctor if you experience prostate swelling.

Garlic

Garlic, a natural immune-system booster, may help decrease prostate gland swelling by fighting off viral and bacteria infections. According to nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch in "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," garlic contain the chemicals allicin and ajoene, which may protect your prostate against irritation and damage caused by toxins and free radical cells. You can include garlic in soups, broth and other entrees.

Zinc Foods

The essential nutrient zinc supports your body's normal development, growth, immune system functions, wound healing and DNA synthesis. Zinc may also play a role in reducing enlarged prostates, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Valuable sources of zinc include lobster, pork, chicken, beef, oysters, chickpeas, baked beans, yogurt and cashews.

Carotenoids

Carotenoids have substantial antioxidant properties that may protect your body from prostate cancer and other related conditions, reports the American Dietetic Association. Sources of carotenoids include kale, tomatoes, carrots, sweet potatoes, Swiss chard, mustard greens, collard greens, turnips, winter squash, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and other colorful vegetables.

Flaxseed

Flaxseed provides your body with healthy omega-3 fatty acids -- polyunsaturated fats that must be obtained from foods. Flaxseed also contains fiber, which increases digestive health and may decrease prostate-associated inflammation and cancer, notes Duke University. Flaxseed is available in oil, ground and whole seed form. Since ground flaxseed is easily digestible, it may provide the most nutritional benefits.