The prostate is notorious for causing health issues for men as they mature. The most common prostate condition is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is an enlarged prostate.
BPH can cause difficulty in urinating and can become a serious issue if left untreated. Inflammation of the prostate and prostate cancer are other fairly common issues related to this significant reproductive male organ.
The prostate’s location in the lower abdomen, adjacent to the bladder and the rectum while surrounding part of the urethra, makes this organ particularly susceptible to causing issues to vital organs and tissues. Let’s take a look at some of the things you can do to help maintain the health of your prostate and your overall health as well:
Lifestyle Factors for a Healthy Prostate
It is in the best interest of all men to maintain their prostate health. Certain basic health practices will help you reduce the risk of developing prostate-related health conditions. These healthy practices include the following:
Weight Management
Obesity affects more than just your appearance. Men who are overweight are more vulnerable to developing prostate conditions than are men who are within their ideal weight range. That is because having too much body fat sets off several inflammatory mechanisms in your body, and these inflammatory responses can increase your risk of severe issues such as prostate cancer.
If your body mass index (BMI) is too high due to too much fat in your body, now is an excellent time to take off some weight. A combination of proper diet and exercise works best. By limiting your caloric intake while increasing the calories you expend through physical activity, you force your body to burn fat reserves. It’s also prudent to consult with your doctor about weight-loss plans.
If you have a healthy BMI, be sure to maintain it within a healthy range. It typically becomes more difficult to remain at a healthy weight while we get older, so keep eating healthy foods and maintaining an active lifestyle.
Healthy Diet
Try to replace fatty foods with lean meats, broiled fish, grains, fruits, and vegetables. These healthy foods tend to contain large amounts of antioxidants, which help thwart damage that could be caused by free radicals.
Antioxidants provide electrons to the free radicals, essentially neutralizing them – so the free radicals won’t take electrons from the healthy molecules in the body. This is how a healthy diet leads to a lower incidence of prostate cancer.
Also, try to avoid or lessen your intake of caffeine-loaded drinks such as coffee or cola. Caffeine increases urine output, which can irritate the prostate and the bladder. Always be sure to drink plenty of water to flush out your system.
Exercise
Physical activity helps the entire body. It makes your cardiovascular system more efficient, increasing blood circulation throughout your body. It also helps in maintaining your weight.
There are several studies which have found that regular cardiovascular exercise and strength training both help improve prostate health. In particular, exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor may help you manage symptoms of prostate disease and can help alleviate urinary incontinence.
Prostate Care in Phoenix, Arizona
Early medical intervention of prostate issues can help you stave off BPH and similar prostate problems. If you are in the greater Phoenix area, Dr. Desi Avila at Ironwood Urology can help you maintain a healthy prostate and can diagnose and treat urological health problems.
For inquiries or to schedule an appointment, call us today at (480) 961-2323 or fill out our online request form. We look forward to being your healthcare partner for ultimate wellness.
