Certain lifestyle factors may play a role in the development of prostate disease, particularly prostate cancer and prostate enlargement.
Such factors include:
Nutrition: a healthy diet plays an important role in maintaining prostate health. A diet high in fat and cholesterol can increase the risk of prostate cancer and prostate enlargement. In contrast, a diet high in fibre, vitamins and minerals can help prevent prostate disease.
Exercise: inactive lifestyles and being overweight can increase the risk of prostate enlargement. However, regular exercise can reduce the risk of prostate cancer and prostate enlargement and help maintain prostate health.
Smoking: Smoking has been associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer.
Drinking alcohol: Drinking large amounts of alcohol can increase the risk of prostate cancer and prostate enlargement.
Stress: Chronic stress can have adverse effects on health, including prostate health. Stress management, such as meditation and yoga, can help relieve stress and improve overall health.
It is important to emphasise that lifestyle is only one of the risk factors for prostate disease and does not guarantee that lifestyle changes will prevent prostate disease.
Regular medical check-ups are important to detect prostate disease at an early stage, when the chances of successful treatment are best.
Unfortunately, prostate disease cannot be completely prevented, but there are many ways to reduce the risk of developing it.
Some tips to prevent prostate disease:
Healthy eating: eat foods that are high in fibre, vitamins and minerals, such as fruit, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats. Reduce your intake of animal fats, sugars and processed foods.
Regular exercise: at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic and anaerobic exercise per week is recommended, such as walking, running, swimming, cycling or strength training.
Healthy weight: keep your weight within a healthy range and avoid obesity. Obesity increases the risk of prostate enlargement and prostate cancer.
Avoid smoking: smoking is bad for your health and increases your risk of prostate cancer.
Limiting alcohol consumption: Moderately limiting alcohol consumption can improve overall health and reduce the risk of prostate enlargement and prostate cancer.
Regular medical check-ups: early detection and treatment of prostate disease increases the chances of a successful recovery. Men aged 45 and over should visit their doctor at least once a year to have their prostate checked and, if necessary, have further tests.
Managing stress: chronic stress can have a detrimental effect on your health, including your prostate health. Active stress management techniques such as meditation and yoga can help relieve stress and improve overall health.
