When a man develops certain symptoms such as frequent urination, pelvic discomfort, trouble starting or stopping urination, changes in urinary habits, and pelvic pain, they can signify a problem with prostate health. Ideally, you see your doctor regularly for prostate health check-ups and preventive care to tend to your overall health so potential prostate problems can be detected early and addressed.
Maintain Good Nutrition
If you’ve enjoyed a life full of rich foods and delicious desserts and plenty of edible indulgences, you will reach an age when good nutrition is non-negotiable. Prostate health can be influenced by your diet, so consider the following tips:
- Eat healthy. A well-balanced diet is essential for maintaining prostate health. Increasing fruits and green vegetables, eating healthy fats and whole grains, and minimizing red meat and dairy.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking water is necessary to flush toxins from the body and support urinary health. Ideally, the bulk of fluid intake happens early in the day and tapers off before bedtime to minimize urinary frequency in the night.
- Consider supplements. Some men will benefit from adding supplements to their diet, filling in the blanks in nutrition and supporting prostate health in the process. It’s important to consult with your regular doctor before taking anything new to ensure it does not interfere with other medications or health conditions.
Stay Active
Movement is important at every age, but the older men get the more aging and wellness can impact the ability to exercise and the types of exercise you may like to do. Before you give up on activity, keep the following in mind:
- Exercise regularly. Regular physical exercise is an essential piece of prostate health that helps manage weight, improve immune function, and reduce inflammation, all factors that are relevant for prostate issues. Talk to your doctor about the best brisk activity for you, like walking or swimming.
- Engage in strength training. Strength training that focuses on the lower body is beneficial for prostate health. You can enhance pelvic floor strength at the same time you build muscle. These efforts support urinary control and overall prostate health.
- Do pelvic floor exercises. Yes, men can do Kegel exercises just like women but in order to strengthen pelvic muscles that support bladder and prostate. Any man experienced prostatitis or BPH can enhance their urinary control.
Prioritize Prostate Screenings
Every prostate screening is not invasive – certainprostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests (simple bloodwork) can deliver the information you’re seeking when it comes to prostate health. It is important to see your doctor for routine medical check-ups and screenings for prostate issues by age 55, though some men will need care sooner. Early detection is essential for successful early treatment.
Make an appointment with me, Dr. Jon Swetech, to discuss your concerns, family history of prostate issues, and other risk factors. Proactive care makes early intervention possible and, ideally, leads to positive outcomes.
Nothing in this blog is official medical advice. See your doctor for customized care.
