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The Best Ways to Prevent an Enlarged Prostate

Aging takes its toll. As men age, they often experience symptoms related to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, known simply as a benign prostate. According to the medical text "Smith's General Urology," about half of all men older than 75 have BPH. How can you prevent it?

  1. Only Time Will Tell

    • According to physicians and medical texts, there is no medically proven way to prevent prostate enlargement. BPH is a common symptom of aging, and whether you get it depends on genetics, health and even some luck.

      BPH usually creates discomfort. Affected men may have difficulty urinating or maintaining a consistent urine stream and may experience a frequent urge to urinate even when it's not necessary. Prostate cancer is often preceded by BPH, although BPH does not necessarily lead to cancer. For most men, BPH remains benign.

    Unproven Hope

    • Although medical texts and physicians won't say these definitively work, many men's health sources suggest the following may help prevent BPH:

      Zinc is known to boost the immune system and assist in natural cell death. Zinc supplements may be helpful but should be taken under a physician's guidance.

      Lycopene carotene has been linked to prostate cancer prevention and general prostate health. This may have a positive effect on preventing BPH.

      Some suggest that Kegel exercises may help. For men, the exercises involve contracting the muscles around the scrotum and anus. This increases blood flow to prostate tissue and, in theory, may provide some benefit.

    Overall Health Is the Best Cure

    • Researchers have come to believe that prostate enlargement may be caused by certain hormone shifts. One study links hormone shifts to increased body fat and weight, which can be traced back to diet and exercise. Studies particularly point to calorie intake, polyunsaturated fats and high amounts of protein as triggers for hormones that contribute to prostate conditions.

      As with so many health conditions, the best prevention is overall good health.

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