If a patient is diagnosed with an enlarged prostate gland, he is recommended a special diet. So, what does such a diet consist of? Well, the following HealthHearty article offers you a list of the foods that you can include in your daily diet, and find relief from the health condition you are suffering.
The prostate gland is found in the male reproductive system, and is of the size of a walnut. It is located just below the bladder, and its function is to secrete a milky-white alkaline fluid. This fluid contains semen, spermatozoa, and seminal vesicle fluid. The pH level of this fluid is alkaline, which helps to neutralize the vaginal tract, as it is acidic in nature. This, in turn, increases the lifespan of a sperm. The prostatic fluid comes out with the first ejaculate fractions from the seminal vesicles. Most men suffer from enlarged prostate gland in their mid 40s. This condition is also known as prostate gland enlargement or benign prostatic hyperplasia.
The condition of prostate gland enlargement is not malignant, but there are certain symptoms associated with it. These include, frequent urination, urinary urgency, incomplete emptying of the bladder, or even inability to urinate. These symptoms are observed because the enlarged gland exerts pressure on the bladder. Although, initially there are no complications, this condition, if left unchecked, can lead to severe consequences. They can be, bladder damage, kidney damage, bladder stone, urinary tract infection (UTI), and incontinence. There is a natural way to treat enlargement of the prostate. However, these natural ways must be chosen only after a doctor’s consultation. Also, this condition must not be confused with prostate cancer.
The Diet
Fresh fruits and vegetables must be included in the diet, while processed and refined foods must be avoided. Here are certain food groups, which must be a part of your daily diet.
Beta-sitosterol
Beta-sitosterol is very helpful, and is found in sugarcane pulp. Herbs like saw palmetto and pygeum are also a good source of beta-sitosterol.
Flax Seed Oil
Flax seed oil is rich in omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. You can have fish oil along with this oil to aid digestion. There are certain foods from this category that are mentioned below:
- Basil
- Tuna
- Halibut
- Salmon oil
- Cod liver oil
Foods Rich in Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral, which is beneficial for cell growth and differentiation, and helps to build the immune system. It is very helpful in treating an enlarged or inflamed prostate gland. Following are the foods high in zinc, which you can include in your daily diet.
- Eggs
- Oysters
- Shellfish
Foods Rich in Vitamin E
Vitamin E is the most important vitamin, that you must consume while suffering from an enlarged prostate gland. Foods containing vitamin E are as follows:
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Sunflower oil
- Peanut butter
- Wheat germ oil
- Roasted or dry almonds
Water
Drink a lot of water and stay hydrated, as the urinary tract infection can affect the bladder. Drinking eight glasses of water a day can help to flush out the bacteria in the body, and aid faster recovery of the condition. Also, drinking cranberry juice can help to relieve the symptoms of the urinary tract infection.
These are the foods to be included in the enlarged prostate diet. Apart from these foods, you must follow the doctor’s treatment regularly. In addition, you must consult a doctor before the implementation of this diet.