Consumer Health: Can diet ease enlarged prostate symptoms?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia, also called BPH or prostate gland enlargement, is a common condition as men age. While prostate gland enlargement rarely causes signs and symptoms in men under 40, about one-third of men experience moderate to severe symptoms by 60, and about half do so by 80.

An enlarged prostate gland can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms, including increased frequency and urgency, especially at night; difficulty starting urination; and inability to completely empty the bladder. It also can cause bladder, urinary tract or kidney problems.

The treatment that is best for you will depend on the size of your prostate, your age and overall health, and the amount of discomfort or inconvenience you are experiencing. Treatment options include medication, surgery, laser therapy and removal of the prostate.

Making some healthy changes to your diet and exercise habits may help you manage symptoms, such as increased urinary frequency and urgency, as well as lower your risk of erectile dysfunction, diabetes and heart disease.

If you’ve been diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia, learn more about how changes to your diet may help with the symptoms.