What Is an Enlarged Prostate?
According to the Mayo Clinic, an enlarged prostate, otherwise known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a health condition many men experience as they grow older.
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The prostate plays a crucial role in producing sperm in men. Yet, as they age, the prostate grows larger, often bringing uncomfortable symptoms such as urinary tract, bladder, and kidney problems. It can even halt urine from leaving the bladder.
Enlarged Prostate Is Extremely Common Among Men 50+
A study released by Yale Medicine suggests that over 50% of men aged between 51 and 60 currently experience symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
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This number jumps to a shocking 70% once men reach the age of 60 to 69.
Various Causes Behind an Enlarged Prostate
Doctors say there are a plethora of things that can lead men to enlarged prostates.
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As men grow older, their testosterone levels begin to fluctuate and drop. Doctors believe this is one primary reason behind the condition. Others suggest poor lifestyle choices lead to an enlarged prostate.
Avoid Getting Metabolic Syndrome
During a video posted to her YouTube channel, Dr. Rena Malik suggests the best preventive measure that can be made against an enlarged prostate is to avoid getting metabolic syndrome.
Source: Rena Malik, MD/YouTube
“Metabolic syndrome is essentially a constellation of conditions that are all due to certain metabolic abnormalities, including things like diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure, and they often occur together,” she said.
What Causes Metabolic Syndrome in Men?
Men who wish to reduce their chance of being diagnosed with an enlarged prostate should do what they can to avoid the health complications associated with metabolic syndrome.
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Several causes behind metabolic syndrome include poor lifestyle choices such as drinking excessively or smoking, an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, and being under a constant state of stress.
How to Reduce the Chance of an Enlarged Prostate
There are several things men can do to reduce their chance of being diagnosed with metabolic syndrome and, thus, an enlarged prostate.
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From eating a healthy diet to introducing a weekly workout, here are four ways to reduce the chance of an enlarged prostate.
Making Dietary Changes
According to the National Institutes of Health, one of the best ways to reduce the chances of reducing the symptoms of metabolic syndrome is by eating a healthy diet.
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They suggest reducing your intake of refined sugars, trans fats, and alcohol and instead opting for fruits, vegetables, and lean meats.
Get Regular Exercise
Science has repeatedly proven that regular exercise can help prevent a wide range of health conditions, including metabolic syndrome.
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Combining a few cardio-based sessions or sports games with strength training every week is more than enough for the body to reap the rewards of exercise.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is considered one of the worst things humans do in regard to health.
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Men drastically lower their chances of being diagnosed with metabolic syndrome by giving up the harmful habit.
Get More Sleep
Stress and a lack of sleep are two symptoms heavily associated with metabolic syndrome and an enlarged prostate.
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Using some form of mindfulness practice can help both reduce the levels of stress and help you get a better night’s sleep. But, if needs be, professional help is also available.
Small Steps Toward a Healthier Future
For men wishing to reduce their chance of an enlarged prostate, it’s apparent health institutes recommend living a healthier life.
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Eating a healthier diet, reducing stress, getting more sleep, and limiting alcohol all work toward reducing the chance of being diagnosed with metabolic syndrome and, ultimately, an enlarged prostate.