Game World!: can garlic shrink enlarged prostate?

Best Foods to Eat with Enlarged Prostate | Reduce Risk of Symptoms, Enlargement & Cancer

The prostate gland is a small, walnut-shaped gland that sits behind the bladder in men. During sexual activity, the prostate gland helps produce semen, the nutrient-rich fluid that carries the sperm during ejaculation.

As some men get older, the prostate gland can become enlarged, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH.

In this article, learn what foods to eat to ease the symptoms of BPH.

Diet and an enlarged prostate

Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are recommended as part of an enlarged prostate diet.

The prostate gland is controlled by powerful hormones known as the sex hormones, including testosterone.

In the prostate gland, testosterone is converted to another hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). High levels of DHT cause the cells in the prostate to enlarge.

Certain foods and beverages are known to have an impact on prostate health because of their effects on testosterone and other hormones.

Research has found that a diet primarily consisting of meat or dairy products can increase the risk of prostate enlargement and cancer. This is especially true if a person does not incorporate enough vegetables into their diet.

Foods to eat

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats is thought to protect the prostate.

Specific foods known to benefit the prostate include:

Salmon: Salmon is rich in healthy fats that contain omega-3 fatty acids, which help prevent and reduce inflammation within the body. Other cold-water fish, such as sardines and trout, are also rich in these types of fats.

Tomatoes: Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that may benefit prostate gland cells. Cooking tomatoes, such as in tomato sauce or soup, helps to release the lycopene and make it more readily available to the body.

Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are excellent sources of antioxidants, which help to remove free radicals from the body. Free radicals are the byproducts of reactions that occur within the body and can cause damage and disease over time.

Broccoli: Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables, including bok choy, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage, contain a chemical known as sulforaphane. This is thought to target cancer cells and promote a healthy prostate.

Nuts: Nuts are rich in zinc, a trace mineral. Zinc is found in high concentrations in the prostate and is thought to help balance testosterone and DHT. Besides nuts, shellfish and legumes are also high in zinc.

Citrus: Oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits are all high in vitamin C, which may help to protect the prostate gland.

Onions and garlic: One study found that men with BPH tended to eat less garlic and onions that men without BPH. More research is needed to confirm these results, but onions and garlic are healthful additions to most diets.

Also, some studiesTrusted Source on plant extract therapies, such as an extract from a type of palm tree known as saw palmetto, have been shown to have a positive impact on the prostate size and urinary flow. More research is needed, however.

Foods to avoid

Caffeine should be avoided as part of a diet for an enlarged prostate.

A healthful diet for an enlarged prostate is more than just eating good foods. It also means avoiding other types of foods that are not good for the prostate.

Some foods to avoid include:

Red meat: Research suggests that going red meat-free may help improve prostate health. In fact, daily meat consumption is believed to triple the risk of prostate enlargement.

Dairy: Similarly to meat, regular consumption of dairy has been linked to an increased risk of BPH. Cutting out or reducing butter, cheese, and milk may help reduce BPH symptoms.

Caffeine: Caffeine may act as a diuretic, which means that it increases how much, how often, and how urgently a person has to urinate. Cutting back on coffee, tea, soda, and chocolate may improve urinary symptoms of BPH.

Alcohol: Alcohol can also stimulate urine production. Men with BPH may find that their symptoms are improved by giving up alcohol.

Sodium: A high salt intake may increase the urinary tract symptoms associated with BPH. Following a low-sodium diet by not adding salt to meals and avoiding processed foods may be helpful for some men.

Managing an enlarged prostate

Dietary changes can be quite effective in managing some of the symptoms of BPH, but other basic lifestyle changes can help as well.

Some strategies that may ease BPH symptoms include:

managing stress

quitting smoking

avoiding fluids in the evening to reduce nighttime urination

emptying the bladder completely when urinating

doing pelvic floor exercises

avoiding medications that can worsen symptoms, such as antihistamines, diuretics, and decongestants if possible

trying bladder training exercises

limiting fluid intake to 2 liters of liquids each day

If these lifestyle changes are not effective, medication or surgery may be recommended by a doctor.

Shrink Your Enlarged Prostate

Enlarged prostate symptoms

The symptoms of an enlarged prostate may include difficulty urinating and pain after ejaculation.

An enlarged prostate or BPH is fairly common. Over 14 million menTrusted Source in the United States experienced BPH symptoms in 2010.

Symptoms of BPH include:

increased urinary frequency and urgency

difficulty starting urination

weak urine stream or dribble at the end of urination

interrupted urination

frequent urination at night

incontinence

pain after ejaculation

painful urination

urinary retention or inability to urinate

These symptoms occur when an enlarged prostate gland blocks the urethra, the tube that runs between the bladder and outside of the body. This blockage can make it difficult or even impossible to pass urine.

Treating BPH depends on the severity of the symptoms. Sometimes, only basic lifestyle changes are needed.

However, there are also medications or surgical procedures that can be effective in reducing the size of the prostate or the symptoms associated with BPH.

Takeaway

Treating BPH can range from making simple lifestyle and dietary changes at home to medication and surgery. Reducing red meat consumption and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can help manage symptoms.

It is important to stay in communication with a doctor about symptoms, particularly if the doctor suggested a “watch and wait” approach.

If the suggested lifestyle changes are not effective in reducing the symptoms, more aggressive treatment may be needed.

I hold tenaciously to the African saying that the stick you see should not pierce your eyes. Prostate is a stick every man should see and it should not lead to cancer or other complications. Every man who is 40 years or above ought to know that from that age, the prostate begins to enlarge. That vital knowledge exposes you to what you are up against.

What is prostate? The prostate is “a gland surrounding the neck of the bladder in male mammals and releasing a fluid component of semen.” That is the semen that carries your sperm and makes reproduction possible.

Without semen, no man can naturally impregnate his wife. The prostate can be enlarged either as a result of cancerous cells (prostate cancer) or non-cancerous cell (BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA, BPH).

Some symptoms of enlarged prostate include: dribbling of urine, urinary incontinence and ‘stop-start’ phenomenon (if the person tries to pass urine, it comes slightly and stops and starts again until the bladder is empty. Most times the bladder will not be fully empty).

In extreme or advanced cases, there can be total blockage of the urethra from the enlarged prostate and the patient will have a full bladder and be unable to pass urine. A catheter is then required at this stage. Complications do arise from this blockage: risk of urinary tract infection, challenges to the kidneys, etc.

There are two main ways of checking your prostate: direct rectal examination (DRE) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA). DRE involves a doctor inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into your rectum to examine your prostate, which is adjacent to the rectum.

“The doctor searches and feels the prostate for texture, smoothness and size; the doctor also checks if the prostate is hard, firm or soft, etc. These you cannot see from the blood test (PSA). The blood test which is prostatic seminal analysis will only tell you about the enzymes” (Dr. Martina Agberien).

PSA, on the other hand, involves taking a blood sample from your vein. The sample is then analysed for PSA, a substance that is naturally produced by the prostate gland. It is usual for a small amount of PSA to be in your bloodstream, but if the PSA in your bloodstream is higher than normal level, it may indicate prostate infection, inflammation, enlargement or cancer.

This means further test is required. Let me quickly add that it is advisable to stay off sexual intercourse for between four days to one week before you do a PSA. Engaging in intercourse too close to your PSA test is likely to interfere with the accuracy of the test. Each procedure (DRE and PSA) has its advantages. Doctors advise that both procedures should be combined to help your inference.

The final diagnosis is obtained after doing a biopsy if necessary. Abiopsy is a medical test involving extraction of sample cells or tissues for examination to determine the presence or extent of a disease). This is confirmatory and would tell you if the prostate enlargement is malignant (cancerous) or benign (BPH).

The Enlarged Prostate: What every man needs to know | Nicholas Donin, MD | UCLA Health

READ ALSO: Family partners NASFAT on prostrate cancer

Prostate remedies come in form of drugs, herbal medicines and food. I find the food remedy safer and better. I did my research and found out that tomatoes are very good for controlling the growth, and shrinking, of prostate.

Scientists have divergent views about how tomatoes should be taken: raw, processed, cooked, etc., but I settled for cooking (slightly) after my research. I take it mainly with beans or egg white (doctors advised me to stay away from the yolk).

One research finding says that tomatoes are packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that may benefit prostate gland cells. Cooking tomatoes, such as in tomato sauce or soup, helps to release the lycopene and make it more readily available to the body, the research finding further asserted.

Before I started taking tomatoes as a prostate remedy, I had been taking onions for a different reason. Onion is a blood thinner. So, I stopped taking aspirin as a blood thinner and switched to onions.

Then I found out that onions are also antioxidants that can also be beneficial to the prostate. Since then I have been taking an average of five medium-sized tomatoes and a fist-sized onion daily. One study found out that men with BPH tended to eat less garlic and onions than men without BPH. While the research acknowledges that more research is needed to confirm these results, onions and garlic certainly have are health benefits.

I do garlic sparingly because the pungent smell puts me off, but the combination of tomatoes and onions has worked wonderfully for my prostate. Two weeks ago when the doctor saw my DRE result, he had to check my age on the form again and exclaimed that, “your prostate is wonderful for your age.”

Tomatoes and onions are no longer just food, but medicine for my prostate and I pay special attention to them. I prepare my sauce by putting the tomatoes first, then eggs and finally and the onions (for about a minute just to blunt the pungency, but it is still crunchy). The whole cooking lasts for about three minutes.

Onions has done other wonderful things for my body. Before, I used to go down with fever or malaria almost every month, but for almost a year now, no fever or malaria. I am not saying onion is anti-malaria, but it has increased my body resistance to the malaria parasite.

In addition, before, each time I exercised, I had to take painkillers. If not, I would come down with fever. But now, I do not take painkillers after exercise anymore and I exercise more frequently now. This is particularly gladdening to me.

I was always in a dilemma before now. Exercise is good for the body, but painkillers destroy the kidneys. Each time I took painkillers, I remembered what the doctor told me in India: “I don’t want to scare you, but watch your kidneys.” Onions have also helped me with my stomach upset. Before I took antacid and antibiotics regularly, but all that is now minimized or gone.

Drugs also help to tame prostate for some people, but drugs usually come with side effects. I just heard of one drug; after taking it, the man said he ejaculated during sex, but there was no semen.

What kind of ejaculation is that? Ejaculation involves forceful ejection of semen and is the highpoint of sex for a man. What if he is still having children, how is he going to impregnate his wife without the semen, which carries the sperms?

I also heard someone recommend sex for 21 days every month to keep prostate enlargement at bay. Hmmm, sex for 21 days for an age group, where many men are deficient in semen production, erections and stamina? In Lagos, some of them spend six hours on the road, five days a week.

I would not recommend 21 days sex every month for men in their 50s and above. Do you solve one problem (prostate enlargement) by creating a bigger problem (heart attack or death)?

NB: Results of consumption of tomatoes and onions by others may produce different results from mine due to different body types and status of the prostate.

A new study has begun to test whether broccoli and garlic can help improve prostate health.

The Norfolk Accumulation of Dietary Bioactives and Prostate Cancer (ADaPt) study has been launched by researchers at Quadram Institute Bioscience (QIB) and the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH). The study, which will take place at the NNUH-run Clinical Research Facility at the Quadram Institute, will involve 40 patients who are due to receive a biopsy for suspected or previously diagnosed prostate cancer.

garlic cloves

Source: Unsplash/Michael Pierce

The new trial is investigating the relationship between ingestion of the bioactive compounds from broccoli and garlic and prostate cancer. Researchers at QIB and NNUH aim to expand our understanding of how consuming two different commercially available food supplements can improve prostate health.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK. The NNUH receives more than 800 referrals a year to investigate and treat potential prostate cancers. However, it usually develops slowly and the majority of cancers will not require treatment in a man’s lifetime.

Tracey Livingstone, Urology Fellow at the NNUH and Principal Investigator of the Norfolk ADaPt trial, said: “Diet appears to have an important role in prostate cancer’s development and progression. The dietary bioactive components from foods such as broccoli and garlic have long been associated with a reduction in the risk, or progression, of prostate cancer. However, there have been few trials which shed light on the potential mechanisms in which the prostate gland becomes exposed to these compounds.”

Photo

Robert Mills, Consultant Urological Surgeon NNUH and NHS co-investigator, Antonietta Melchini, Human Study Lead at the Quadram Institute Bioscience and Tracey Livingstone, Urology Research Fellow and Principal Investigator of the ‘Norfolk ADaPt’ study

Source: Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

“The ‘Norfolk ADaPt’ trial aims to assess whether the consumption of dietary supplements containing the active compounds from broccoli and garlic results in an accumulation within the prostate gland and urine in comparison to a normal diet. We also aim to assess whether these compounds alter the prostatic microbiome, and the expression of the genes associated with prostate cancer development and progression.”

Shrink ENLARGED PROSTATE in 7 Easy Steps

The majority of patients with prostate cancer that do not require radical treatment are closely monitored on a programme of ‘active surveillance’ with regular blood tests and biopsies to assess whether there is tumour progression. However, there are currently no approved therapeutic interventions for men who have chosen a programme of ‘active surveillance’ that may reduce the risk of cancer progression

Patients who volunteer to take part in the trial will be asked to consume four capsules a day for at least four weeks prior to their biopsy procedure and will be asked to provide urine and blood samples for testing, as well as additional prostate biopsy cores taken at the time of their routine procedure.

This study will provide further insight into the potential mechanisms by which dietary constituents may prevent or slow the progression of prostate cancer

Robert Mills

Melanie Pascale, Manager of the Clinical Research Facility at the Quadram Institute, said: “We are delighted to be hosting the first broccoli and garlic trial at the CRF. The facility is perfectly located for research into nutrition and human health because of its close links to the scientists and clinicians working in the Quadram Institute and Norwich Research Park.”

Robert Mills, Consultant Surgeon in Urology at NNUH, added: “This study will provide further insight into the potential mechanisms by which dietary constituents may prevent or slow the progression of prostate cancer.”

A recent study on rats has suggested that garlic is a potential safe, non-toxic option for preventing prostate growth in men with BPH. Garlic has anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. When men and rats were put on a garlic supplement regimen, showed that garlic reduced the chronic inflammation in the prostrate, and initiated cell death. Garlic also reduced the expression of androgen receptors (testosterone) and reduced the levels of circulating testosterone. This ultimately worked to reduce changes associated with BPH in the prostate tissue.Garlic is one of the oldest and most ancient medicinal herbs used in all types of medicinal practices. Some people may want to avoid garlic due to its pungent aroma, but it turns out the things that cause the aroma may be responsible for all manner of health benefits. Eating garlic can improve your sex life (it’s been used as an aphrodisiac for centuries). It improves your heart health by decreasing blood pressure and preventing blood clots, prevents cancer, and athlete’s foot. Recently, studies have shown that eating garlic can actually have a positive impact on prostate gland enlargement.

Symptoms of Prostate Gland Enlargement

Prostate enlargement is one of the leading causes of trouble for men as they age. It is caused by a variety of different factors, including aging, and hormonal imbalance. While an enlarged prostate is not necessarily cancerous and does not increase your risk for prostate cancer, it does have its share of annoying symptoms:

A slow or weak urinary stream
A feeling that the bladder is never completely empty
Difficulty starting urination
Frequent urination
Urgent feeling to urinate
The need to rise frequently to urinate at night
An inconsistent urinary stream
Straining to urinate

How Garlic Helps Prevent Prostate Enlargement

Can an enlarged prostate Be Cured?

The prostate is a male gland. It surrounds the urethra (urinary channel) that connects to the bladder. During a male’s fertile years, the prostate gland makes fluid that comes out during ejaculation. As men get older, their prostate may become enlarged. Most men will experience some prostate growth starting in their 30s. However, symptoms may not be noticeable until age 50 or later.

At University of Utah Health, our urologists provide the full spectrum of treatment for men with an enlarged prostate — also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Our highly trained specialists help diagnose enlarged prostate issues and offer a range of treatments, including conservative treatments, minimally invasive surgery options, and more advanced surgeries.

WHAT IS THE NORMAL SIZE OF THE PROSTATE GLAND?

A normal-sized prostate is around 25 grams — approximately the size of a walnut. However, an enlarged prostate may grow well over three times the normal size (over 80 grams). The size of a man’s prostate varies from person to person. Size is just one of the many factors we consider when determining whether a man needs treatment for BPH.

Our doctors use a variety of tools to determine if you have an enlarged prostate and need treatment, including:

physical examination,

symptom discussion,

severity of symptoms,

diagnostic tests, and

laboratory tests.

PROSTATE ENLARGEMENT SYMPTOMS

The most common symptoms of BPH (enlarged prostate) relate to urinary function. You may experience:

How to Shrink an Enlarged Prostate Naturally

bladder obstruction, such as a slow stream of urine;

starting and stopping while urinating;

inability to empty your bladder completely;

bladder irritation or discomfort;

feeling an urgency to urinate;

waking up multiple times at night to urinate; or

urinary incontinence (an inability to control your bladder).

When you work harder to push urine out, these urinary symptoms could eventually put pressure on your bladder. This may lead to bladder abnormalities or other issues. It’s important to discuss any potential symptoms of BPH with your doctor.

When to See a Doctor

About half of all men over the age of 40 will experience some symptoms of BPH. If these symptoms become bothersome or interfere with your daily life, talk to your primary care provider or schedule an appointment to see a urology specialist. Ignoring your symptoms could lead to even more discomfort and disruption in your life. In severe cases, an enlarged prostate could lead to bladder or kidney problems if left untreated.

ENLARGED PROSTATE CAUSES

The exact cause of BPH (enlarged prostate) is not known. Most men will experience prostate enlargement as they get older. Some risk factors that could contribute to prostate enlargement include:

family history of enlarged prostate,

being overweight or obese,

living a sedentary lifestyle,

diabetes,

heart disease, and

aging.

The following items don’t cause BPH, but could make your symptoms worse, including:

certain prescription medications, such as beta blockers and diuretics;

a class of antidepressants called tricyclic antidepressants;

over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, or NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs);

some types of beverages, such as alcohol, coffee, tea, or soda; and

certain foods, such as red meat, spicy foods, or dairy.

FIND A UROLOGIST

HOW IS AN ENLARGED PROSTATE DIAGNOSED?

A primary care provider (PCP) or urologist will diagnose BPH (enlarged prostate) after a discussion of your symptoms and a physical exam. Your doctor may recommend additional tests or imaging if the cause is not clear or if they need to rule out other conditions. The specific tests you need, if any, will depend on your health, family history, and other factors.

These tests may include:

Urine test

Digital rectal exam — The doctor will use their finger to determine the prostate size and texture.

Blood tests — These will help identify or rule out any kidney problems.

PSA blood test — This test will identify any levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in your blood, a chemical made by the prostate.

Urinary flow test — This test will measure your urine volume and strength of the flow.

Voiding diary — This journal will help you keep track of how often and how much you urinate in 24 hours.

Transrectal ultrasound — We will insert a probe into your rectum that sends out high-energy sound waves to visualize and measure the size of your prostate.

Urodynamic (pressure flow) study — During this study, a catheter (long, thin tube) will be inserted in your urethra.

Cystoscopy — We will use a camera to view your urethra and bladder.

ENLARGED PROSTATE TREATMENT

There are several treatment options for BPH (enlarged prostate).

Watchful Waiting

If you have minimal symptoms, your urologist may recommend a period of “watchful waiting.” You may be instructed to make some changes to your diet and lifestyle habits to relieve symptoms of BPH, such as losing weight (if necessary) or controlling your blood sugar levels. Your doctor may also encourage you to keep a diary about your symptoms to see if they worsen over time.

Our doctors will schedule your appointments at regular intervals (at least once a year or more often, if necessary) to:

Discuss your symptoms.

Conduct a physical exam.

Order lab tests.

If your BPH gets worse, your doctor will recommend one or more of the following treatment options.

Medications

Some patients can successfully address BPH with medication and avoid the need for surgery or other interventions. There are four common medications we prescribe for an enlarged prostate, either on their own or in combination with one another:

Alpha blockers — This medication will relax your prostate and bladder opening to allow better urine flow. Many people see an improvement in their symptoms without serious side effects.

5-alpha reductase inhibitors — This medication will block hormones that can lead to prostrate growth. As a result, your prostate will shrink slowly over a period of four to six months. This medication works best for patients with significant prostate enlargement.

Anticholinergic medications — This medication will block receptors in your nerve cells that cause muscle movement in the gastrointestinal tract. It treats overactive bladder, frequent urination, and consistent urges to urinate.

PDE5 inhibitors — This medication will relax the muscles in your bladder and prostate to reduce some of the symptoms of BPH.

Enlarged Prostate Surgery

If medications do not work to reduce or eliminate symptoms of BPH, your urologist may recommend prostate surgery. Our urologists perform a wide range of surgeries to open the urethra where it runs through the prostate.

Ways to prevent prostate problems | Dr. Hansaji Yogendra

CAN AN ENLARGED PROSTATE BE CURED?

For most patients, BPH (enlarged prostate) is curable. Some people see a significant reduction in symptoms with medication alone. If medicine does not work, or your prostate is too large, surgery will often remove enough of the prostate to provide you with relief. However, there is a chance that your prostate tissue will grow back. If that occurs, your doctor may recommend additional surgery or medication.

IS AN ENLARGED PROSTATE CANCEROUS?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia means that you are experiencing abnormal cell growth in your prostate, which causes it to get larger. Benign means it is not cancer. Studies have found no link between BPH and prostate cancer. In fact, an enlarged prostate will not increase your risk for developing prostate cancer.

If your urologist suspects that you might have prostate cancer, he or she will recommend diagnostic tests, such as:

a prostate biopsy,

PSA test (prostate-specific antigen, a chemical made by the prostate), or

prostate MRI.

Some late-stage cancers may also show symptoms that are similar to an enlarged prostate, especially if your cancer is in the area of your urethra. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms to get a proper diagnosis.

NATURAL REMEDIES FOR ENLARGED PROSTATE

Most natural remedies have little or no scientific research to indicate whether they are effective for treating the symptoms of BPH (enlarged prostate).

However, you can reduce the symptoms of BPH by:

eating a healthy diet.

eating five servings of fruits and vegetables each day (especially citrus fruits).

doing moderate to vigorous exercise on most days.

losing weight or maintaining a healthy body weight.

limiting caffeine and alcohol (they can increase the urge to urinate).

avoiding liquids a few hours before bed.

Foods and Beverages to Avoid with Enlarged Prostate

Some foods and beverages may negatively impact the health of your prostate or worsen your BPH symptoms. The types of foods that might irritate your bladder can vary from person to person, so some foods might not affect you while others do.

Discuss with your doctor which of these "bladder irritants" you may want to avoid:

caffeine,

alcohol,

red meat,

processed meat,

high-fat foods (such as dairy),

chocolate,

tomatoes, and/or

acidic fruits (such as grapefruits, lemons, and oranges).

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE A UROLOGIST

Call U of U Health Urology at 801-213-2700 to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced urologists.

You do not need a referral from your PCP to schedule an appointment with us. However, some insurance providers require that you get a referral before you see a specialist. Contact your insurance carrier with any questions you may have about your plan requirements.

Is it possible to shrink an enlarged prostate?

Your doctor will start by asking detailed questions about your symptoms and doing a physical exam. This initial exam is likely to include:

Digital rectal exam. The doctor inserts a finger into the rectum to check your prostate for enlargement.

Urine test. Analyzing a sample of your urine can help rule out an infection or other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

Blood test. The results can indicate kidney problems.

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. PSA is a substance produced in your prostate. PSA levels increase when you have an enlarged prostate. However, elevated PSA levels can also be due to recent procedures, infection, surgery or prostate cancer.

After that, your doctor might recommend additional tests to help confirm an enlarged prostate and to rule out other conditions. These tests include:

Urinary flow test. You urinate into a receptacle attached to a machine that measures the strength and amount of your urine flow. Test results help determine over time if your condition is getting better or worse.

Postvoid residual volume test. This test measures whether you can empty your bladder completely. The test can be done using ultrasound or by inserting a catheter into your bladder after you urinate to measure how much urine is left in your bladder.

24-hour voiding diary. Recording the frequency and amount of urine might be especially helpful if more than one-third of your daily urinary output occurs at night.

If your condition is more complex, your doctor may recommend:

Transrectal ultrasound. An ultrasound probe is inserted into your rectum to measure and evaluate your prostate.

Prostate biopsy. Transrectal ultrasound guides needles used to take tissue samples (biopsies) of the prostate. Examining the tissue can help your doctor diagnose or rule out prostate cancer.

Urodynamic and pressure flow studies. A catheter is threaded through your urethra into your bladder. Water — or, less commonly, air — is slowly injected into your bladder. Your doctor can then measure bladder pressure and determine how well your bladder muscles are working. These studies are usually used only in men with suspected neurological problems and in men who have had a previous prostate procedure and still have symptoms.

Cystoscopy. A lighted, flexible instrument (cystoscope) is inserted into your urethra, allowing your doctor to see inside your urethra and bladder. You will be given a local anesthetic before this test.

Tests and diagnosis at Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic specialists have experience diagnosing complex conditions involving enlarged prostate. You have access to the latest diagnostic testing, including urodynamic and pressure flow studies.

More Information

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) care at Mayo Clinic

Computerized tomography (CT) urogram

Cystoscopy

Show more related information

Treatment

A wide variety of treatments are available for enlarged prostate, including medication, minimally invasive therapies and surgery. The best treatment choice for you depends on several factors, including:

Prostate enlargement: Home Remedies by Dr. S.K.Pal at Apollo Spectra Hospitals

The size of your prostate

Your age

Your overall health

The amount of discomfort or bother you are experiencing

If your symptoms are tolerable, you might decide to postpone treatment and simply monitor your symptoms. For some men, symptoms can ease without treatment.

Medication

Medication is the most common treatment for mild to moderate symptoms of prostate enlargement. The options include:

Alpha blockers. These medications relax bladder neck muscles and muscle fibers in the prostate, making urination easier. Alpha blockers — which include alfuzosin (Uroxatral), doxazosin (Cardura), tamsulosin (Flomax) and silodosin (Rapaflo) — usually work quickly in men with relatively small prostates. Side effects might include dizziness and a harmless condition in which semen goes back into the bladder instead of out the tip of the penis (retrograde ejaculation).

5-alpha reductase inhibitors. These medications shrink your prostate by preventing hormonal changes that cause prostate growth. These medications — which include finasteride (Proscar) and dutasteride (Avodart) — might take up to six months to be effective. Side effects include retrograde ejaculation.

Combination drug therapy. Your doctor might recommend taking an alpha blocker and a 5-alpha reductase inhibitor at the same time if either medication alone isn't effective.

Tadalafil (Cialis). Studies suggest this medication, which is often used to treat erectile dysfunction, can also treat prostate enlargement.

Minimally invasive or surgical therapy

Minimally invasive or surgical therapy might be recommended if:

Your symptoms are moderate to severe

Medication hasn't relieved your symptoms

You have a urinary tract obstruction, bladder stones, blood in your urine or kidney problems

You prefer definitive treatment

Minimally invasive or surgical therapy might not be an option if you have:

An untreated urinary tract infection

Urethral stricture disease

A history of prostate radiation therapy or urinary tract surgery

A neurological disorder, such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis

Any type of prostate procedure can cause side effects. Depending on the procedure you choose, complications might include:

Semen flowing backward into the bladder instead of out through the penis during ejaculation (retrograde ejaculation)

Temporary difficulty with urination

Urinary tract infection

Bleeding

Erectile dysfunction

Very rarely, loss of bladder control (incontinence)

There are several types of minimally invasive or surgical therapies.

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)

A lighted scope is inserted into your urethra, and the surgeon removes all but the outer part of the prostate. TURP generally relieves symptoms quickly, and most men have a stronger urine flow soon after the procedure. After TURP you might temporarily need a catheter to drain your bladder.

Transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP)

A lighted scope is inserted into your urethra, and the surgeon makes one or two small cuts in the prostate gland — making it easier for urine to pass through the urethra. This surgery might be an option if you have a small or moderately enlarged prostate gland, especially if you have health problems that make other surgeries too risky.

Transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT)

Your doctor inserts a special electrode through your urethra into your prostate area. Microwave energy from the electrode destroys the inner portion of the enlarged prostate gland, shrinking it and easing urine flow. TUMT might only partially relieve your symptoms, and it might take some time before you notice results. This surgery is generally used only on small prostates in special circumstances because re-treatment might be necessary.

Transurethral needle ablation (TUNA)

In this procedure, a scope is passed into your urethra, allowing your doctor to place needles into your prostate gland. Radio waves pass through the needles, heating and destroying excess prostate tissue that's blocking urine flow. TUNA may be an option in select cases, but the procedure is rarely used any longer.

Laser therapy

A high-energy laser destroys or removes overgrown prostate tissue. Laser therapy generally relieves symptoms right away and has a lower risk of side effects than does nonlaser surgery. Laser therapy might be used in men who shouldn't have other prostate procedures because they take blood-thinning medications.

The options for laser therapy include:

Ablative procedures. These procedures vaporize obstructive prostate tissue to increase urine flow. Examples include photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) and holmium laser ablation of the prostate (HoLAP). Ablative procedures can cause irritating urinary symptoms after surgery, so in rare situations another resection procedure might be needed at some point.

Enucleative procedures. Enucleative procedures, such as holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP), generally remove all the prostate tissue blocking urine flow and prevent regrowth of tissue. The removed tissue can be examined for prostate cancer and other conditions. These procedures are similar to open prostatectomy.

Prostatic urethral lift (PUL)

Special tags are used to compress the sides of the prostate to increase the flow of urine. The procedure might be recommended if you have lower urinary tract symptoms. PUL also might be offered to some men concerned about treatment impact on erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory problems, since the effect on ejaculation and sexual function is much lower with PUL that it is with TURP.

What to Do and Not Do with Enlarged Prostate | Lifestyle Modifications

Embolization

In this experimental procedure, the blood supply to or from the prostate is selectively blocked, causing the prostate to decrease in size. Long-term data on the effectiveness of this procedure aren't available.

Open or robot-assisted prostatectomy

The surgeon makes an incision in your lower abdomen to reach the prostate and remove tissue. Open prostatectomy is generally done if you have a very large prostate, bladder damage or other complicating factors. The surgery usually requires a short hospital stay and is associated with a higher risk of needing a blood transfusion.

Follow-up care

Your follow-up care will depend on the specific technique used to treat your enlarged prostate.

Your doctor might recommend limiting heavy lifting and excessive exercise for seven days if you have laser ablation, transurethral needle ablation or transurethral microwave therapy. If you have open or robot-assisted prostatectomy, you might need to restrict activity for six weeks.

Mayo Clinic Minute: Steam treatment for enlarged prostate

Show transcript for video Mayo Clinic Minute: Steam treatment for enlarged prostate

Treatment at Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic specialists have training in a wide range of state-of-the-art technology to treat enlarged prostates. You have access to the latest noninvasive laser treatments, including HoLEP and PVP lasers. Your Mayo Clinic specialist will explain the range of treatments available and help you choose the best approach based on your symptoms.

BPH care at Mayo Clinic

Our caring team of Mayo Clinic experts can help you with your health concerns. Visit Mayo Clinic Men's Health to get started.

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Increased PSA levels

Ablation therapy

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Lifestyle and home remedies

To help control the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, try to:

Limit beverages in the evening. Don't drink anything for an hour or two before bedtime to avoid middle-of-the-night trips to the toilet.

Limit caffeine and alcohol. They can increase urine production, irritate the bladder and worsen symptoms.

Limit decongestants or antihistamines. These drugs tighten the band of muscles around the urethra that control urine flow, making it harder to urinate.

Go when you first feel the urge. Waiting too long might overstretch the bladder muscle and cause damage.

Schedule bathroom visits. Try to urinate at regular times — such as every four to six hours during the day — to "retrain" the bladder. This can be especially useful if you have severe frequency and urgency.

Follow a healthy diet. Obesity is associated with enlarged prostate.

Stay active. Inactivity contributes to urine retention. Even a small amount of exercise can help reduce urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate.

Urinate — and then urinate again a few moments later. This practice is known as double voiding.

Keep warm. Colder temperatures can cause urine retention and increase the urgency to urinate.

More Information

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) care at Mayo Clinic

Enlarged prostate: Does diet play a role?

Alternative medicine

The Food and Drug Administration hasn't approved any herbal medications for treatment of an enlarged prostate.

Studies on herbal therapies as a treatment for enlarged prostate have had mixed results. One study found that saw palmetto extract was as effective as finasteride in relieving symptoms of BPH, although prostate volumes weren't reduced. But a subsequent placebo-controlled trial found no evidence that saw palmetto is better than a placebo.

Other herbal treatments — including beta-sitosterol extracts, pygeum and rye grass — have been suggested as helpful for reducing enlarged prostate symptoms. But the safety and long-term efficacy of these treatments hasn't been proved.

If you take any herbal remedies, tell your doctor. Certain herbal products might increase the risk of bleeding or interfere with other medications you're taking.

Preparing for your appointment

You might be referred directly to a doctor who specializes in urinary issues (urologist).

What you can do

Make a list of your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment.

Keep track of how often and when you urinate, whether you feel you're completely emptying your bladder, and how much liquid you drink.

Make a list of your key medical information, including other conditions you might have.

Make a list of all medications, vitamins or supplements that you're currently taking.

Write down questions to ask your doctor.

Questions to ask your doctor

Is an enlarged prostate or something else likely causing my symptoms?

What kinds of tests do I need?

What are my treatment options?

How can I manage other health conditions along with an enlarged prostate?

Are there any restrictions on sexual activity?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions during your appointment.

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What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer them might give you more time to address any concerns. You might be asked:

When did you first begin experiencing urinary symptoms? Have they been continuous or occasional? Have they gradually worsened over time, or did they come on suddenly?

How often do you urinate during the day, and how often do you need to get up at night to urinate?

Have you ever leaked urine? Do you have a frequent or urgent need to urinate?

Is it difficult for you to begin urinating? Do you start and stop when urinating, or feel like you have to strain to urinate? Does it ever feel like you haven't completely emptied your bladder?

Is there any burning when you urinate, pain in your bladder area or blood in your urine? Have you had urinary tract infections?

Do you have a family history of enlarged prostate, prostate cancer or kidney stones?

Have you ever had any trouble getting and maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction), or other sexual problems?

Have you ever had surgery or another procedure that involved insertion of an instrument through the tip of your penis into your urethra?

Are you taking any blood thinners, such as aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven) or clopidogrel (Plavix)?

How much caffeine do you consume? What is your fluid intake?

Is raw garlic good for prostatitis?

Chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBP), which is characterised by recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) and persistence of pathogenic bacteria and evidence of inflammation in the prostatic secretions, is one of the most common causes of relapsing UTI in men. In this study, we evaluated the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects of garlic as well as the synergistic effect of garlic with ciprofloxacin on the treatment of CBP in an animal model. An experimental CBP model was induced in 60 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats by instillation of 0.2 mL of bacterial suspension (Escherichia coli Z17, O2:K1:H-) containing 1 x 10(8) colony-forming units/mL into the prostatic urethra. Microbiologically and histologically proven CBP was demonstrated in 68.3% (41/60) of the rats after 4 weeks of bacterial instillation. The 41 rats demonstrating CBP were randomly divided into four treatment groups: control; garlic; ciprofloxacin; and garlic plus ciprofloxacin. After 3 weeks of treatment, microbiological cultures of the urine and prostate samples as well as histological findings of the prostate were analysed. Microbiological cultures and histological findings of the prostate samples demonstrated reduced bacterial growth and improved inflammatory responses in all three experimental groups compared with the control group. The garlic group showed a statistically significant decrease in bacterial growth and improvement in prostatic inflammation compared with the control group. The garlic plus ciprofloxacin group showed a statistically significant decrease in bacterial growth and improvement in prostatic inflammation compared with the ciprofloxacin group. These results suggest that garlic may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects as well as a synergistic effect with ciprofloxacin. We therefore suggest that the combination of garlic and ciprofloxacin may be effective in treating CBP with a higher success rate.

What can I eat to reduce the size of my prostate?

Roughly 50 percent of men over the age of 50 have an enlarged prostate or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney DiseasesTrusted Source. By the age of 80, nearly 90 percent of men will live with BPH.

The good news is that a diet rich in certain vitamins and minerals can keep your prostate healthy and lower your risk for BPH. Being overweight is another risk factor for developing the condition. So making nutritious food choices is also a great way to lower both your weight and your risk.

Sesame seeds

Sesame seeds are rich in zinc. The mineral is essential to the health of the prostate, according to a study in the Indian Journal of UrologyTrusted Source. Men with either BPH or prostate cancer have lower levels of zinc in their bodies, sometimes up to 75 percent lower than those with healthy prostates.

Zinc that comes from food is easier to absorb than zinc supplements. Help your body by snacking on sesame seeds. Almonds, adzuki beans, and pumpkin seeds are also high in zinc.

A study on rats show that pumpkin seeds may also be beneficial for managing BPH.

Salmon

Obesity may increase your risk for an enlarged prostate, according to the Mayo Clinic.

One review suggestsTrusted Source increasing omega-3s along with exercise to decrease obesity and weight gain. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats can protect you from:

cardiovascular disease

cancer

rheumatoid arthritis

inflammation

weight gain

If you’re not a fan of fish, you can get your omega-3s from walnuts, ground flax seeds, chia seeds, and canola oil. Smaller amounts are found in kidney beans and soybeans.

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Bell peppers

According to the Mayo Clinic, vitamin C found in vegetables may play a role in fighting BPH. Bell peppers contain a lot of vitamin C: One cup of raw bell peppers contains nearly 200 percent of your daily required intake of vitamin C. Other vegetables rich in vitamin C that you may want to add to your diet include:

How to Lower PSA Levels Naturally | Reduce Prostate INFLAMMATION Naturally

broccoli

cauliflower

kale

Brussels sprouts

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, the bright carotenoid, which gives the plant its red color. Lycopene may lower the risk of developing prostate cancer. It can also help men with BPH, according to the National Cancer InstituteTrusted Source.

One studyTrusted Source saw lycopene slow the progression of BPH in participants. Lycopene also helps lower the prostate specific antigen (PSA) connected to prostate inflammation, BPH, and prostate cancer. Just make sure to include your lycopene rich food with a fat like avocado, nuts, oil or butter to enhance absorption.

You can get lycopene in:

tomatoes

watermelon

apricots

pink grapefruit

papaya

Avocados

Avocados are rich in beta-sitosterol, a plant sterol thought to reduce symptoms associated with BPH. Some men taking beta-sitosterol supplements say they have better urinary flow and less residual urine volume. However, the Mayo Clinic warns that the safety and effectiveness of beta-sitosterol supplements have not been proved.

Besides avocados, other foods rich in beta-sitosterol include:

pumpkin seeds

wheat germ

soybeans

pecans

Vegetables

Eating more vegetables can help lower your risk of BPH. Green leafy vegetables are especially important because they are rich in antioxidants. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli also reduce the risk of prostate problems, including BPH and prostate cancer.

People who eat onion and garlic regularly may also benefit from a lower risk of BPH. Onions and garlic are often used in natural medicine to fight infection and help strengthen your immune system.

Tofu

One older studyTrusted Source saw that soybean isoflavones reduce BPH growth. But a more recent oneTrusted Source suggests that soy only decreases cancerous cell growth in prostates.

Another studyTrusted Source found that soy isoflavones help with symptoms and signs of lower urinary tract symptoms due to BPH.

For other sources of soybean isoflavones, try these whole soy foods:

soymilk

tempeh

edamame or cooked soybeans

roasted soybeans

soy yogurt

Is garlic good for prostate problem?

Garlic taken for four weeks reduced prostate size and inflammatory markers in a testosterone-induced rat model of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The findings indicate that the herb might be a safe and non-toxic option to prevent prostate growth in men with BPH.

The herb has been used as a remedy for thousands of years, and modern research shows that garlic can prevent excessive blood fats, and has anti-inflammatory and heart-protective properties. Recent studies also indicate that it might have anticancer properties by halting cell growth and inducing cell death, making it an interesting substance to study in BPH, particularly since chronic inflammation is believed to be a contributor to prostate growth.

An earlier study showed that men with BPH who regularly consumed garlic extract improved several disease parameters, including urinary flow and prostate symptom scores. Using a rat model of BPH induced by the injection of testosterone, researchers from Sangji University, Korea, fed rats garlic powder or the BPH drug finasteride, used as a positive control. Their study, “Anti-Proliferation Effects of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) on the Progression of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia,” demonstrated that the herbal remedy as effective in reducing prostate weight as finasteride.

Further examinations revealed that garlic reduced the expression of the androgen (testosterone) receptor in the prostate to levels even lower than in the finasteride group, and lowered the levels of circulating testosterone. Four weeks of treatment also prevented changes associated with BPH in the prostate tissue.

Researchers then examined the presence of the inflammatory factors iNOS and COX-2, which were increased in testosterone-treated animals. Both iNOS and COX-2 are enzymes producing other inflammatory mediators, and the findings, published in the journal Phytotherapy Research, showed that both treatments reduced the levels of these inflammatory enzymes, although garlic was not as effective as finasteride.

Given the earlier studies showing that garlic might induce cell death, the team also examined the levels of a range of molecular players of cell death-inducing pathways. Garlic both triggered the production of molecules that promote cell death, and blocked mediators normally suppressing this destructive pathway, with changes generally comparable to finasteride, having a dual effect on promotion of cell death in the prostate.

Exercising and strengthening the pelvic floor is one way to improve symptoms from an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Benefits of strengthening the pelvic floor muscles include:

improved bladder and bowel control

improved recovery after prostate surgery

increased sexual satisfaction and orgasm potential

increased social confidence and quality of life

Yoga postures, or asanas, and Kegel exercises are low-impact ways to help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. Performing the following yoga stretches can help you develop muscular control and flexibility in the pelvic region. The calming nature of these exercises may also help relieve stress and pelvic tension.

If you feel relaxed and comfortable, you may hold the poses for up to five minutes at a time. Hold more strenuous poses for up to 30 seconds. Remember, always modify or adjust the pose to suit your body as you go.

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Kegel exercises

Kegel exercises are simple exercises you can do to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. You can do these exercises on your own.

First, correctly identify your pelvic floor muscles. They’re the group of muscles that support your bladder and regulate your urine flow. They include the bladder, sphincter muscles, and pelvic floor muscle.

To identify the pelvic floor muscles, imagine that you’re trying to stop your urine flow while urinating. Do not do this while actually urinating. Squeeze, hold, and release the muscles a few times. Do the same with the sphincter muscles.

Now imagine that you are squeezing and lifting the pelvic floor muscles. You can do these exercises sitting, standing, on lying down on your back with your knees bent.

Make sure you have correctly identified the pelvic floor muscles and feel comfortable completing the exercises. Aim to do 3 sets of 12 squeezes per day. Hold each inward squeeze for up to 10 seconds and release. Relax for a few seconds between each repetition.

A 2013 studyTrusted Source found that men who did pelvic floor exercises each day for 12 weeks following prostate surgery improved their urinary function and overall quality of life. They reduced lower urinary tract symptoms and had maximal urinary flow rate.

1. Hero (Virasana) pose

Sit between your feet with your knees down and your toes facing backward.

You may sit on a pillow for added support.

Keep your spine lengthened and rest your hands on your thighs, palms facing down.

Keep the weight in your hips and not your knees.

You can do your Kegel exercises while doing the pose.

To release the pose, roll over to one side and release your legs.

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2. Cobbler pose (Baddha Konasana)

Sit down with your legs extended in front of you.

You may sit on the edge of a cushion for additional support in your hips.

Bend your knees to the side and place the soles of your feet together.

Pull your heels closer into your body to deepen the stretch, and move them farther away to lessen the stretch.

You may interlace your fingers and place them under the pinky toe sides of your feet.

After some time, walk your hands forward, round your spine, and tuck your chin to drop into a forward fold.

Breathe deeply and focus on relaxing and letting go of tension.

Release the pose by walking your hands back up and releasing your legs in front of you.

3. Head-to-knee pose (Janusirsasana)

Sit on the floor with both legs extended in front of you.

Bend your right knee and bring the sole of your right foot against your left inner thigh.

You may place a pillow under your sit bones or under your right knee for support.

Turn your torso to the left so your naval lines up with the inside of your left leg.

Place your hands on the floor beside you, or slowly walk them out in front of you.

Tuck your chin into your chest and hinge from the hips to come closer to the floor.

It’s okay to round your spine and to bend the extended leg.

Slowly release on an inhale and walk your hands back as you lift your body.

Repeat on the opposite side.

4. Reclining big toe pose (Supta Padangusthasana)

Lie on your back with both legs extended and with a strap nearby.

Bend the left knee and pull your left thigh into your chest.

Press the right leg heavy into the floor while drawing your right toes back to your shin and pressing out through the sole of the right foot.

Put the strap around the arch of the left foot and hold the strap in both hands.

Straighten the left leg as you press the sole of the foot up toward the ceiling.

Walk your hands up the strap toward your foot, if possible, and press your shoulders into the floor while broadening across the collarbone.

If it’s comfortable, you can take hold of the strap with your left hand and allow your leg to fall out to the left side. Keep the right leg heavy and grounded to the floor.

To release, bring the leg back up to the top, release the strap, and hug the left leg back into your chest.

Repeat on the opposite leg.

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5. Bow pose (Dhanurasana)

Lie down on your belly with your arms alongside the body, palms facing up.

Slowly bend your knees so your feet come up, and reach back with your hands to grasp the outside of your ankles.

Raise your head, chest, and shoulders off of the mat, if possible.

Try to keep your knees from splaying out to the side.

Look forward or up while taking long, deep breaths.

Hold for up to thirty seconds and release.

You may do this pose two times.

Finding a studio

You can practice yoga at home or, if you’d like some extra guidance, you can go to a yoga studio. It’s important to find a studio that suits your needs and makes you feel comfortable. Check out a few different studios in your area so you can decide which one is best for you.

Look for a studio that offers a variety of classes. Make sure the styles are suitable to your level and personal preference. You may want to choose a studio that focuses on the spiritual side of yoga as well as the physical.

Different styles may include:

Hatha

This is one of the most traditional styles of yoga. It focuses on breathing and classical yoga postures that are done slowly. The class is usually slow-paced and may focus on alignment. Meditation may also be included.

Yin

This is an excellent choice because it focuses on relaxing and letting go of tension, especially in the hips, pelvis, and lower spine. You work on lengthening connective tissues while in a meditative state. Poses are held for up to five minutes each.

Restorative

This type of yoga focuses on opening the body and relaxing the muscles. You use various props to hold poses for up to 20 minutes while entering a deep state of relaxation.

Kundalini

The aim of kundalini yoga is to bring up the energy stored at the base of your spine. It focuses on moving this energy up the spine and increasing physical vitality. Classes include meditation, mantra chanting, and physical postures.

Outlook

Yoga may help improve symptoms of an enlarged prostate without surgery or medications. Engaging in these exercises on a daily basis and eating a healthy diet may help improve your symptoms and your overall quality of life.

Learn more: 6 natural remedies for enlarged prostate (BPH) »

Emily Cronkleton is a certified yoga teacher and has studied yoga in the United States, India, and Thailand. Her passion for yoga has laid the foundation for a healthy and inspired life. Her teachers and practice have helped shape her life experience in many ways.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), more commonly known as an enlarged prostate, affects millions of AmericansTrusted Source, and in many cases, the condition does not require medical treatment.

Some people may wish to try complementary remedies like green tea and other drinks alongside traditional treatment methods for BPH.

However, it is important to understand that scientific research on the efficacy of these complementary remedies is lacking. BPH can lead to severe health complications, so it’s best to talk with your doctor about any BPH symptoms.

Keep reading to learn more about the potential benefits of green tea and other drinks on BPH and prostate health.

What is benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH)?

Up to 50 percentTrusted Source of men between ages 51 and 60 have BPH and around 90 percent of men over age 80 live with the condition.

Because of the location of the prostate gland, when it enlarges, it can interfere with the ability to urinate properly. It constricts the urethra and puts pressure on the bladder, leading to complications such as leakage, a reduced ability to urinate, and a weak urine stream.

Over time, BPH can lead to incontinence, damage to the bladder and kidneys, urinary tract infections, and bladder stones. It’s these complications and symptoms that send many looking for treatment.

If the prostate didn’t press upon the urethra and bladder, BPH might not require treatment.

The green tea connection

People often refer to green tea as a “superfood.” Numerous studies have assessed the tea and its nutritional content for potential health benefits. Some of these health benefits may include:

cardiovascular protectionTrusted Source

cholesterol managementTrusted Source

possible neuroprotectiveTrusted Source effects

Drinking green tea may also have positive effects on the prostate gland. However, its association with prostate health is primarily due to research that connects it to protection against prostate cancer, not prostate enlargement.

However, one studyTrusted Source of people with known or suspected BPH did link improved lower urological health with consumption of a green and black tea extract supplement.

Researchers found that people who supplemented with 500 milligrams (mg) or 1000 mg of a green and black tea extract blend showed improved urine flow, decreased inflammation, and improvements in quality of life in as little as 6 weeks.

However, green and black tea extracts are highly concentrated and will have different health effects than traditionally brewed teas.

Despite the lack of evidence, adding green tea to your diet could have prostate health benefits. It also has known chemoprotective propertiesTrusted Source in the case of prostate cancer, so green tea is a good choice regardless.

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What about other types of tea?

If green tea isn’t your cup of tea, there are other options. Reducing your caffeine intake can be beneficial if you have BPH since it can cause you to urinate more.

You may want to choose teas that are naturally caffeine-free or find a caffeine-free version.

Matcha

Matcha is the highest grade of green tea and comes in powdered form. However, matcha does contain caffeine, so it may not be suitable for all people with BPH.

Choose a high quality matcha powder to make tea. You can also use culinary-grade tea for food.

Here are some basic directions for making matcha tea:

Put 2 teaspoons of matcha powder into a deep bowl.

Sift it into a bowl using a small sifter.

Pour 1/2 cup of hot water into the bowl and whisk until the tea is frothy.

Pour the rest of the hot water into the bowl and stir.

Nettle root tea

Limited evidence from animal studies suggests that stinging nettle root tea may be beneficial for prostate disorders. A 2015 studyTrusted Source on adult male rats found that nettle root extract could prevent some effects of BPH when taken for 6 weeks. However, there’s currently no human research supporting the use of nettle tea in the treatment of BPH.

Chemicals present in stinging nettle root tea can interfere with some medications. You should also avoid taking nettle root with:

lithium

diabetes medications

blood pressure medications

sedatives

warfarin (Coumadin)

Hibiscus tea

Hibiscus tea has numerous health benefits. It is high in antioxidants, may help reduce blood pressureTrusted Source, and findings from test-tube studies suggest that it may help slow the growthTrusted Source of cancer cells in the prostate. However, no studies have assessed its direct impact on BPH.

Its tart and tangy flavor make it easy to drink. You can use dried or fresh hibiscus flowers to make the tea. Serve it hot or chilled with honey and a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Hibiscus can affect blood sugar levels and blood pressure, and it can interact with acetaminophen (Tylenol). Do not take within 2 weeks of scheduled surgery.

Learn more about the health benefits of hibiscus tea.

How to incorporate green tea into your diet

If you don’t want to drink cup after cup of green tea, there are other ways to include it in your diet. The possibilities are endless once you start to think outside the cup.

Use green tea as the liquid for a fruit smoothie.

Add matcha powder to salad dressing, cookie dough, or frosting, or stir it into yogurt and top with fruit.

Add brewed green tea leaves to a stir-fry dish.

Mix matcha powder with sea salt and other seasonings to sprinkle over savory dishes.

Use green tea as your liquid base for oatmeal.

Other drinks

Besides teas, other drinks can help improve overall prostate health and potentially reduce symptoms of BPH:

Water. Staying hydrated is crucial for overall good health, including that of the prostate.

Tomato juice. Tomatoes are a good source of lycopene. This is a pigment found in many fruits and vegetables. A small study found that an increased intake of lycopene-enriched food improved prostate health and reduced prostate-specific antigen levels. Watermelon and grapefruit are also good sources of lycopene.

Citrus juice. Citrus fruits are a great source of vitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and is important for overall health. An older 2007 study also found that an increase in vitamin C intake lowered the likelihoodTrusted Source of people developing BPH.

While certain remedies may be of benefit, maintaining an overall healthful lifestyle can help to improve BPH symptoms and protect against BPH. Staying active, eating a balanced diet, and managing weight can all help achieve this.

Additional treatments for BPH

When an enlarged prostate starts to impact someone’s quality of life, they’ll likely turn to a doctor for relief. There are numerous medications that can help treat BPH.

Surgery is also an option. Surgery for BPH typically removes tissue pressing against the urethra. This surgery is possible using a laser, entrance through the penis, or with an external incision.

Far less invasive are lifestyle measures that may assist in managing BPH. Avoiding alcohol and coffee, avoiding certain medications that can worsen symptoms, and practicing Kegel exercises may relieve BPH symptoms.

A man’s prostate gland continues growing throughout his life. That’s why older men are more likely to have issues with enlarged prostate. This condition is called benign enlarged prostate, which isn’t the same thing as having prostate cancer. These are two separate health conditions that are treated in different ways. Benign means noncancerous. However, even without cancer, an enlarged prostate can cause discomfort and complications.

Everything you need to know about PROSTATE GLAND ENLARGEMENT | BPH

Benign enlarged prostate is the most commonTrusted Source problem for men over age 50. Men with this condition experience bladder troubles that include: frequent urination, involuntary loss of urine, a weak stream of urine, and pain during urination or after ejaculation.

If your symptoms aren’t severe, your doctor may recommend regular checkups for a period before deciding on medical treatment. The main form of medical treatment involves prescription drugs from these two categories: alpha blockers and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. Alpha blockers reduce symptoms by relaxing the muscles in the prostate and bladder and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors work by blocking the hormone that makes the prostate grow.

6 Natural Remedies for an Enlarged Prostate

Some treatments and herbal supplements that can help manage your symptoms are available over the counter (OTC). However, The American Urological Association does not recommend or recognize these treatments for managing benign enlarge prostate. If you’d like to try one of the treatments listed below, you should still consult your doctor.

1. NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medications that help lower inflammation. Common types are aspirin and ibuprofen. These drugs are often taken to reduce arthritis symptoms and prevent heart disease. Some research also suggests that men who already take NSAIDs regularly may be improving their prostate health. However, there is not yet enough evidence to recommend that you start taking them regularly specifically to treat enlarged prostate.

2. Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto is an herbal supplement that’s made from the fruit extracts of the saw palmetto plant. It’s one of the more popular herbal remedies used to treat urinary problems, including enlarged prostate. You can find it in pill form or as a liquid extract.

A range of 100 to 960 mg daily has been used to treat enlarged prostate, but according to the National Institutes of HealthTrusted Source, a few studies have shown it to be effective. As a result, saw palmetto is one of the most commonly recommended natural remedies. However, more research is still needed in order for it to be officially accepted as a treatment in the medical community.

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3. Pygeum

Pygeum is a supplement made from the bark of the African plumb tree. The extract has been used for many years to treat enlarged prostate. It works as an anti-inflammatory and may have positive effects on the bladder as well. One small study found that, when combined with other herbs, pygeum might help reduce issues of frequent urination in people with enlarged prostate. More clinical trials are needed in the United States to determine its effectiveness.