Is It Possible To Shrink an Enlarged Prostate Naturally?

As men age, the prostate gland often goes through changes. It’s a natural part of getting older for many.

The prostate sits just below the bladder and wraps around the tube that carries urine out of the body. When this gland enlarges, it can squeeze that tube, leading to urinary issues. This condition is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

While medical treatments exist, many people wonder if natural methods can help manage symptoms or even shrink the prostate. In general, diet and lifestyle changes may help reduce urinary symptoms and support overall prostate health, but they do not reliably “shrink” the prostate for everyone. Before making any significant changes to your daily routine, it’s essential to talk with your primary care provider. They can help determine if your symptoms are due to an enlarged prostate or another condition.

Recognizing BPH Symptoms

Symptoms of an enlarged prostate can vary from person to person. Some men experience minor annoyances, while others face significant disruption to their daily lives. The size of the prostate doesn’t always predict symptom severity.

Common signs include:

• Frequent or urgent urination.
• Urinating often at night.
• Trouble starting to urinate.
• Weak urine stream.
• Stream that stops and starts.
• Dribbling after urinating.
• Inability to empty the bladder.
• Blood in the urine.
• Urinary tract infection.

Dietary Changes To Consider

What you eat may play a role in prostate health. Some research suggests that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats could support prostate health and help with symptoms. Consider adding these items to your diet:

Fatty Fish

Cold-water fish like salmon, sardines, trout and mackerel provide omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats may help reduce inflammation within the body.

Tomatoes

This fruit is packed with lycopene. Lycopene is an antioxidant that may benefit prostate gland cells. Cooking tomatoes makes the lycopene easier for your body to use.

Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries are excellent sources of antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals in the body.

Vegetables

Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, and leafy greens like kale contain compounds thought to promote a healthy prostate.

Nuts and Seeds

Walnuts, sesame seeds and pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc. Zinc is found in high concentrations in the prostate and may help support normal hormone balance.

Citrus Fruits

Oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruits are high in vitamin C, which may help support overall health, including the prostate.

Soy Products

Tofu, soy milk and soybeans contain isoflavones. These compounds might help support prostate health and urinary function in some people.

Green Tea

Green tea contains catechins, which are antioxidants that may support urinary tract and prostate health.

Foods To Limit or Avoid

Just as some foods can help with BPH symptoms, others might irritate the bladder or worsen urinary symptoms. If you notice certain foods or drinks trigger urgency, frequency or nighttime urination, consider limiting them and see if symptoms improve.

• Red meats, such as beef, pork and lamb, which are often high in saturated fats.
• High-fat or large amounts of dairy if you notice it worsens symptoms.
• Caffeinated drinks, which can increase urgency and frequency.
• Alcohol, which can act as a diuretic and increase urine production.
• Hot peppers and very spicy foods, which can irritate the bladder for some people.
• Excess salt, which may contribute to fluid shifts and discomfort for some people.

Lifestyle Adjustments for Reducing BPH Symptoms

Certain lifestyle changes can support prostate health and improve your quality of life.

Stay Active

Exercising at a moderate to vigorous pace (e.g., brisk walking or biking) can help you maintain a healthy weight and may lower the risk of bothersome BPH symptoms.

Manage Stress

Stress can worsen urinary symptoms. Techniques like meditation or spending time with loved ones can be beneficial.

Watch Your Fluids

Avoiding liquids for a few hours before bedtime can reduce nighttime bathroom trips. However, it’s still crucial to stay hydrated during the day.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity can raise the risk of developing an enlarged prostate. Losing excess weight may help improve symptoms.

Avoid Straining

Straining to pass stool can worsen symptoms, so eating plenty of fiber to prevent constipation is helpful.

A Note About Herbal Supplements

Some people explore herbal therapies such as saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol or pygeum. Studies on these supplements have produced mixed results. It’s crucial to discuss these options with your provider before trying them, as they can interact with other medications.

When To See a Provider

If you notice changes in your urinary habits, make an appointment with your primary care provider. They can assess your symptoms and recommend the best course of action. While natural methods can support prostate health, they are not a substitute for professional medical evaluation.

Seek prompt medical care if you cannot urinate, have fever or chills, develop severe pain, or notice blood in your urine.

If you’re not sure where to start, your primary care provider can help guide next steps and refer you for specialized care if needed. 

If you don’t have a Baptist Health primary care provider, call 1.844.6BAPTIST or visit our provider directory. Download a patient packet to prepare for your next primary care appointment.