Having prostatitis means that your prostate gland, which produces seminal fluid during ejaculation, is inflamed. Although not as serious as diseases such as prostate cancer, prostatitis can cause pain and difficulty during urination and in severe cases may require surgery. Dietary changes aren't known to cure or treat prostatitis. Certain foods may, however, impact the severity or frequency of your symptoms. For best results, seek specified guidance from your doctor or dietitian before altering your diet.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are top sources of antioxidants -- nutrients that strengthen your body's ability to defend itself from infections and disease. Some doctors recommend increased intake of the antioxidant vitamin C for men with bacterial prostatitis. Vitamin C may reduce inflammation and reduce the growth of harmful bacteria linked with prostatitis. Fruits and vegetables particularly rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants include berries, cherries, citrus fruits, kiwi, cantaloupe, tomatoes, bell peppers and winter squash.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds contain healthy unsaturated fat and rich amounts of the mineral zinc. Zinc deficiencies may contribute to prostatitis, according to coauthors of "Prescription for Natural Cures," James Balch and Mark Stengler. They recommend snacking on raw pumpkin seeds and avoiding unhealthy fat sources, such as butter, margarine and processed snack foods, which can worsen inflammation. Roasted pumpkin seeds is another valuable snack option. Avoid adding excessive salt or hot spices, such as chili pepper, however, which may also aggravate your symptoms.
Cold-Water Fish
Cold-water fish are prime sources of omega-3 fatty acids -- essential fats that may help minimize inflammation associated with prostatitis and other conditions. Fish also contain significant amounts of zinc. Varieties particularly rich in omega-3 fatty acids include herring, salmon, albacore tuna, lake trout, halibut, sardines, mackerel and flounder. For heightened benefits, replace red, processed and fried meats in your diet, which may increase swelling, with baked, broiled or poached cold-water fish.
Fluids
Staying properly hydrated is important if you have prostatitis. Balch and Stengler recommend drinking water throughout each day to keep fluids moving through your urinary tract and consuming green tea regularly for antioxidant and cleansing benefits. Other hydrating fluids include caffeine-free herbal teas, low-fat milk, low-sodium broth or broth-based soups, gelatin and pure juices. Although each person's specific fluid needs vary, many doctors recommend aiming for 8 to 10 cups daily or until your urine appears clear or pale yellow. Spending time in hot weather and exercising intensely increase your fluid needs.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Prostatitis
- "Prescription for Natural Cures"; James Balch, Mark Stengler; 2004
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