Lifestyle habits promoting lifelong prostate health

As you age, your prostate gland is vulnerable to various conditions that can have severe consequences. However, you can take charge of your health by taking the necessary steps to keep it healthy. By exploring the gland’s functions, understanding illnesses that can impact it, and implementing effective measures to care for it, you can stay ahead of any potential problems. Don’t wait until it’s too late – start taking positive steps towards a healthy prostate today.

The function of your prostate gland

The prostate is a small gland important to your reproductive health. This gland, about the size of a walnut and weighing only one ounce, is under your bladder and in front of your rectum. It is responsible for producing the ejaculate that semen requires to travel through your penis and out of your body. The ejaculate contains zinc, citric acid, and enzymes that help to lubricate your urethra, which is the opening that leads from the penis out of the body, and also nourishes sperm cells. Taking care of this gland is crucial for maintaining your reproductive health.

Conditions that affect the prostate

As men age, their prostate gland may gradually increase in size, which may not always cause any noticeable symptoms initially. This usually occurs when men reach around 40 years of age, and the risk of this condition affecting a higher percentage of men increases as they approach the age of 55. However, an enlarged prostate may increase the chances of developing certain conditions:

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) refers to an enlarged prostate, which is a common noncancerous condition that affects men as they age. It can cause difficulty in urination by putting pressure on the bladder, leading to urinary tract obstructions and retention. While it is not life-threatening, it can impact the quality of life and requires medical attention.

Prostatitis

Prostatitis is an inflammation of the prostate and is a common condition that affects men between the ages of 30 and 50. The inflammation can be either bacterial or non-bacterial prostatitis, and the latter is more pervasive and challenging to cure as symptoms vary from person to person. Despite the unknown cause of this condition, early detection and treatment can prevent it from developing into chronic prostatitis, a severe condition that could lead to prostate cancer. Consultation with a medical professional is vital if you experience any prostate inflammation symptoms.

Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is a serious condition that usually affects men over the age of 50. However, younger men can also be diagnosed with prostate cancer. Although its cause is often unknown, certain factors such as family history and age can increase the risk of developing it. Successful treatment of prostate cancer relies on early detection, as this disease can become more dangerous as it spreads to other systems in the body. Therefore, it is crucial to get regular check-ups to detect any signs of prostate cancer early on. Being proactive and taking care of your health can increase your chances of living a long and healthy life.

Ways to keep your prostate healthy

Here are a few tips for maintaining a healthy prostate and preventing related health issues:

Taking care of your prostate is crucial as you age. Here are some tips to help keep it healthy and may help reduce your risk of prostate cancer:

– Exercise regularly: Make physical activity a priority as it can significantly decrease the chances of your prostate getting larger.

– Maintain a healthy weight: A healthy body weight is crucial for the health of your prostate. Keeping a healthy weight can reduce pressure on your bladder and lower the likelihood of changes in your prostate.

– Eat a healthy diet: Consuming a nutrient-rich diet filled with whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can make a significant difference in your prostate health. Be sure to include these foods into your diet daily. 

– Stop using tobacco products: Using any tobacco products is taking a great risk of increasing prostate cancer, which is why it’s essential to quit now. Take the necessary steps to ensure that you’re not putting yourself in harm’s way.

– Get regular screenings: Don’t wait until it’s too late. Starting at age 40, schedule regular screenings to help detect any changes in your prostate. Men with a family history of prostate cancer should talk to a doctor about starting screenings earlier.

Maintaining a healthy prostate is vital to living a long and healthy life. Fortunately, taking care of your prostate is easy. If you’re experiencing any difficulties with urination, ejaculation, or other pelvic issues, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your urologist. Remember, your health is priceless, and taking preventative measures now will only benefit you in the long run.

Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy.  Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.