7 Natural Foods to Prevent an Enlarged Prostate

Once men reach their mid-50s, their chances of developing enlarged prostate increase about 4 percent each year, according to the Mayo Clinic. Certain foods can help prevent this condition and are beneficial for a healthy prostate.

In general, a healthy overall lifestyle and diet will benefit the prostate gland. For example, Mayo Clinic summarizes the findings of a study that determined men who are physically active, do not have “belly fat,” eat at least five servings of vegetables daily, and drink a moderate amount of alcohol have a lower risk of developing benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate.

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There also are specific foods that should be avoided. Men’s nutrition expert and registered dietitian Jim White told Sharecare that men who eat red meat are three times as likely to develop an enlarged prostate as those who do not. He also recommends limiting dairy intake to keep the prostate healthy.

Here are seven foods that can help prevent an enlarged prostate, according to Healthline:

1. Sesame seeds are high in zinc. Men with enlarged prostates typically have low zinc levels.

2. Salmon provides a high level of omega-3 fatty acids, which benefits cardiovascular health and the prostate.

3. Tofu is a soy product and soy isoflavones have been linked to a lower risk of enlarged prostate.

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4. Bell peppers contain more vitamin C than any other vegetable. Vitamin C has been shown to lower the risk of enlarged prostate. Mayo Clinic points out that vitamin C from vegetables has prostate benefits, but vitamin C from fruit does not offer the same benefits.

5. Tomatoes contain high amounts of lycopene which has been linked to a lower risk of enlarged prostate and even prostate cancer.

6. Avocados have high amounts of beta-sistosterol, which can help to relieve the urinary difficulties associated with enlarged prostate. Beta-sistosterol is also an anti-inflammatory that can help relieve pain.

7. Vegetables in general are healthy for the prostate, especially leafy green vegetables, broccoli, garlic, and onions.

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