Understanding and Managing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) Naturally
Movember: Let's explore together the issues of men's health this November. At Adrien Gagnon, we are committed to keeping you informed and raising awareness about topics related to your health and to supporting your daily well-being.
Introduction
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), formerly known as hypertrophy, is a common condition characterized by an enlargement of the prostate gland. It's important to note that the term "benign" indicates that this growth is not malignant and is not related to prostate cancer. Furthermore, there's no direct correlation between the size of the enlargement and the severity of experienced symptoms.
Impacts and Symptoms
An enlarged prostate can put pressure on the urethra, leading to various urinary problems. Men with BPH may experience difficulty urinating, weak urinary flow, an urgent need to urinate, inability to completely empty the bladder, and frequent nighttime urination.
Key symptoms include:
- Difficulty starting and maintaining a steady urine flow
- Frequent waking at night to urinate
- Persistent feeling of a full bladder, even after urinating
- Tips for Better Prostate Health
Diet
Dietary treatment of BPH aims to provide essential nutrients for the proper functioning of the prostate and to support male hormonal balance. It is recommended to include soy-based products, rich in isoflavones and beta-sitosterol, to counter the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), an active form of testosterone.
Adopt a diet high in lean protein, low in caffeine and alcohol (especially beer), and rich in zinc (found in pumpkin seeds, Pacific oysters, wheat germ, veal liver, and legumes). Antioxidants, abundant in fresh fruits and vegetables, also play a crucial role. Finally, prioritize healthy fats from fish and cold-pressed oils.
Practical Tips:
- Limit evening fluid intake to reduce nighttime urination frequency.
- Avoid cycling, which can compress the prostate and exacerbate symptoms, and prefer walking to reduce urinary retention.
- Be cautious when lifting heavy loads, as this can increase bladder pressure and intensify urinary symptoms.
- Include cranberry-based products in your diet to prevent urinary tract infections, especially if you have difficulty completely emptying the bladder.
Conclusion
BPH is a manageable condition, and with the right dietary and lifestyle choices, you can significantly reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. Always consult your doctor or a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to your situation.
Article updated November 27 2023, Original article published 10 September 2017.