Prostate cancer is the most common “male” cancer, and in recent years, rates have been increasing, as well. Because its symptoms can be subtle, prostate troubles are often overlooked until more serious symptoms develop.
The new year is a great time to take a closer look at your prostate health, starting with simple lifestyle changes to support better gland health and function. Here, Alfred Shtainer, MD, FACS, and the team at Adult and Pediatric Urology offer five steps you can take to improve your prostate health (and your overall wellness, too).
Regular physical activity helps reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and support a healthier prostate. Even low-impact exercises like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling can help lower your risk of conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and improve overall urinary function.
Consistent activity also supports a healthy weight (item 3 on this list), which plays a role in long-term prostate wellness, too.
Nutrition impacts your overall health and prostate-specific health and function, too. Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats to support prostate health and reduce inflammation.
Foods like tomatoes, berries, leafy greens, and fatty fish contain antioxidants and other key nutrients that may help lower your risk of prostate problems. At the same time, limit red meat, processed foods, and unhealthy fats in your food choices. Even small shifts in your daily eating habits can add up to long-term benefits.
Carrying extra weight has been linked to a higher risk of prostate cancer, although researchers aren’t exactly sure why. What they do know is that weight management lowers inflammation, which plays a role in many prostate conditions. Even modest weight loss can offer measurable benefits.
Alcohol and caffeine can irritate the bladder and make some urinary symptoms worse, including those annoying nighttime trips to the bathroom. Cutting back — especially in the evening — can significantly improve comfort and reduce strain on your prostate gland.
Try swapping alcoholic drinks or caffeinated beverages with still or sparkling water or herbal tea. Track your symptoms to monitor changes in urinary symptoms so that you can tailor your habits to your needs.
Understanding early warning signs can help you catch prostate issues before they become more serious. You should never ignore symptoms like weak urinary flow, frequent nighttime urination, pelvic discomfort, painful urination, or blood in the urine. Even mild changes can signal the start of prostate enlargement or infection.
Prostate screening is essential if you have symptoms, but it also plays a key role in prevention. Tests like the PSA blood test help detect early changes before symptoms develop, giving you the best chance for successful treatment if a problem arises. We can determine how often you need these tests based on your age, risk factors, and medical history.
Take steps to improve your prostate health now. Learn how we can help you adopt more healthy tips based on your lifestyle and risk factors. Request an appointment online or by phone at Adult and Pediatric Urology in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, New York, today.
