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If you're dealing with an enlarged prostate, there are medications that can help, but natural remedies may also be effective. Altering your diet, making lifestyle changes, and considering herbal remedies under medical supervision can all contribute to reducing prostate size.
Simple Steps
Adjusting Your Eating Habits
Incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet. Consuming a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, such as tomatoes rich in lycopene, can be particularly beneficial for reducing prostate size. Aim for 1 to 2 servings of fresh or canned tomatoes daily.
Choose whole-grain options for bread, pasta, rice, and cereal. These foods keep you full longer and are better for your prostate compared to refined carbohydrates. Incorporate whole grains into each meal, such as whole-wheat bread, brown rice, or oatmeal.
Reduce your consumption of red meat. Studies suggest that high intake of animal protein, like red meat, eggs, and dairy, may increase the risk of prostate enlargement. Opt for plant and fish sources of protein instead, such as salmon, beans, nuts, and tofu.
Incorporate healthy fats in moderation. Limiting fat intake, especially saturated fats, may help control prostate size. Choose unsaturated fats like olive oil, nut butters, and avocado, and enjoy them in moderation, aiming for 2 to 3 servings per day.
Reduce your intake of sugary beverages and sweets. High sugar consumption may contribute to prostate enlargement. Limit sugary sodas, juices, candies, and sweets to occasional treats, ideally 1 to 2 times per week.
Try fruit instead of sweets for a healthier option. When craving something sweet, reach for a piece of fruit like an apple, orange, or a handful of grapes.
Lower your sodium intake. High sodium diets increase the risk of prostate enlargement. Consider switching to a low-sodium diet by focusing on whole foods and avoiding canned, frozen, and packaged foods. Use lemon juice, vinegar, and fresh herbs to flavor your meals instead of salt.
Implementing Lifestyle Changes
Engage in regular exercise for at least 30 minutes most days of the week. Regular physical activity reduces the risk of prostate enlargement. Even a daily walk can significantly improve your overall health and provide protective benefits against prostate issues. If you prefer other forms of exercise, opt for those instead.
Allocate at least 15 minutes each day for relaxation. Stress can contribute to prostate problems and negatively impact overall health. Dedicate 15 minutes daily to activities you enjoy or relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or deep breathing.
Consume alcohol moderately or limit intake. Excessive alcohol consumption may worsen prostate enlargement symptoms. Consider reducing or abstaining from alcohol consumption. If you choose to drink, limit yourself to no more than 2 drinks per day, which is considered moderate for men.
Reduce your consumption of caffeinated beverages. Caffeine acts as a diuretic, increasing urination frequency. Limit caffeinated drinks to 1 to 2 cups of coffee or tea per day. Consider switching to green tea, which contains properties that may aid in reducing prostate size.
Tip: To eliminate caffeine completely, opt for decaffeinated versions of your favorite beverages, such as decaf coffee and tea.
Exploring Herbal Solutions
Consider taking saw palmetto. Studies on its efficacy vary, but some indicate significant reduction in prostate size. Consult your doctor for appropriate dosage recommendations before using saw palmetto supplements.
Explore pygeum africanum. This supplement, utilized for over 30 years in Europe, exhibits anti-inflammatory properties and inhibits cellular growth. While generally well-tolerated, it may cause gastrointestinal discomfort and headaches in some individuals. Consult your healthcare provider before starting pygeum africanum supplements.
Consider using rye grass pollen extract. The supplement, often known as cernilton, has shown promising results in reducing prostate size over a 3-year period in a study. Consult your healthcare provider for the recommended dosage before starting rye grass pollen supplements.
Explore beta-sitosterol supplements. Beta-sitosterols, found in plants, including saw palmetto, may aid in reducing prostate size. Consult your doctor about incorporating beta-sitosterol supplements into your regimen.
Caution: Note that the long-term effects of this treatment are unknown as it has not been extensively studied over extended periods.
Enjoy a daily cup of nettle tea. Nettle exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, potentially assisting in reducing prostate size. Try incorporating a cup of nettle tea into your daily routine for several months to observe any effects.
Include a daily cup of green tea. Green tea contains EGCG, which may contribute to reducing prostate size. Substitute your morning coffee with a cup of green tea to potentially observe benefits over time.
Consider taking a daily zinc supplement, ensuring not to exceed 100 mg. Meeting the recommended daily zinc intake has been associated with prostate size reduction. Opt for a daily multivitamin containing zinc or a standalone zinc supplement. However, avoid consuming more than 100 mg of zinc per day to mitigate the risk of prostate cancer.
Useful Tips
- Avoid consuming fluids too close to bedtime. Refrain from drinking liquids approximately 1 to 2 hours before bedtime to minimize nighttime bathroom trips.
Important Warnings
- Inform your doctor about any over-the-counter medications or supplements you are taking. Certain supplements may interact with prescription medications.
