Prostate enlargement, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition that occurs in men as they grow older. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, about 50 percent of men above the age of 50 have an enlarged prostate.
It is associated with a harmless increase in the size of the prostate gland- a gland that produces fluids that nourishes the sperm cells-. However, this gland surrounds the urethra- a tubular organ that carries urine out of our body-.
As the prostate becomes larger, it can compress the urethra, leading to difficulty urinating.
Food Choices For Enlarged Prostate
You can take important steps in managing your health by adhering to a diet rich in certain vitamins and minerals. Here is a list of the best 5 foods that can improve the condition of your prostate.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain large amounts of a nutrient called lycopene. This nutrient is beneficial to the cells of your prostate gland due to its antioxidant properties. When you cook tomatoes, such as in tomato sauce or soup, lycopene is released, your body then utilizes it.
Salmon
Obesity can increase your chances of having an enlarged prostate or worsening the condition. Salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids which are good for decreasing obesity and weight gain.
Other food sources of omega-3 fatty acids that you can take are chia seeds, ground flax seeds, walnuts, and canola oil.
Onions And Garlic
Onions and garlic are useful additions to your diet if you are looking to manage your prostate.
They may improve urine flow by strengthening your immune system.
Citrus
Fruits such as lime, oranges, lemon, and grapefruit contain large amounts of vitamin C, which may help protect your prostate gland.
Berries
Raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries contain antioxidants, which help to remove byproducts of chemical processes from your body.
If these metabolic products are allowed to build in your body, it may harm the cells of your body especially your prostate gland cells.
