Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is a condition that affects the male prostate gland. The prostate surrounds the urethra in men, the tube that delivers urine outside the body. People who have BPH suffer from an enlargement of the prostate, which can cause discomfort and difficulties with urination. The underlying cause for BPH is unknown in many cases, but the foods you eat could increase your risk or aggravate the condition.
Caffeine and Alcohol
Foods and beverages that contain caffeine and alcohol may aggravate BPH due to increased bladder irritation. Both of these substances can also cause you to produce more urine, which can make complete bladder emptying more difficult and uncomfortable. Avoid caffeinated drinks like soda, tea and coffee, chocolate and alcohol products if these foods affect your urinary habits or increase your pain. If you do choose to consume such beverages, limit your intake and drink them earlier in the day, as frequent nighttime voiding can also be a symptom of BPH.
Spicy Foods
Spicy food, as well as those high in sodium are more likely to irritate your bladder and cause an increase in your BPH symptoms. Hot peppers, salsa and other potent spices may aggravate your condition. If you suspect foods with a kick are to blame for some of your symptoms, eliminate them from your diet and reassess how you feel.
Grains and Cereal Products
Italian researchers from the Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri studied men with BPH and their dietary habits between 1981 and 2002. Of the more than 1,400 participants, the patients who had more symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate or more of a risk of developing symptoms were those who ate large amounts of grains. The men who consumed breads and cereal products, along with eggs and poultry, were found to be more at risk for prostatic enlargement than those who followed a diet filled with fresh produce and soup.
Minimizing Risks
Johns Hopkins Medicine reports that men have less chance of developing BPH or an aggravation of symptoms when they consume an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables and protein. The antioxidant properties found in a variety of fresh produce may play a beneficial role in minimizing the risks of BPH. Red meats and a high-fat diet can increase your risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia and may contribute to increased symptoms.
References
- Drugs.com: Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy Care Guide
- Johns Hopkins Medicine; Health Alerts: Enlarged Prostate; August 2009
- "Urology"; Food Groups and The Risk of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia; F. Bravi et al.; January 2006
- MayoClinic.com; Prostate Gland Enlargement: Lifestyle and Home Remedies; December 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia; Steven D. Ehrlich; November 2009
