One of the leading causes of enlarged prostate is prostate cancer. The specific causes of prostate cancer are still not known, but early studies have shown that unhealthy diet is strongly associated with the chances of contracting prostate cancer. For instance, the risk of developing this type of cancer is greatly increased with the intake of a diet high in fat and red meat. Your diet must be high in proteins from soy, eggs, and fish in order to avoid an enlarged prostate. Chicken, vegetables and low fat dairy are also smart choices.

Practicing safe sex is yet another way to prevent an enlarged prostate. The prostate gland has a working relationship and close proximity to the urethra which is the tube through which semen and urine are ejected from the male body. So, prostate is affected by anything that affects the urethra. Unsafe sex can lead to urinary system infections and sexually transmitted diseases. These conditions can also lead to the development of prostate infections which eventually result in enlarged prostate. The urethra can be protected by practicing safe sex i.e., using condoms.

Practicing good hygiene is another effective way of preventing enlarged prostate. You may contract urinary tract infections because of the bacteria and virus which gets introduced into the urinary system through the urethra. These types of infections can lead to enlarged prostate. Make sure that your genitals are dry and clean. Make it your habit to wash them using warm water and mild soap daily and after sexual intercourse. Change your undergarments regularly. You can prevent bacteria such as E. coli from spreading into your urethra and anal area by practicing these precautions, hence, the enlargement of prostate can be prevented.

Drinking plenty of water everyday is a healthy practice that keeps you safe from a number of ailments and infections. It is always recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water everyday in order to stay healthy. This flushes out your bladder and, hence, prevents you from bladder, kidney and prostate infections. However, try to avoid drinking after 7 pm so that the need to urinate during the night may be reduced.

You can even consider taking ibuprofen or aspirin daily as these drugs are known to prevent prostate enlargement. Four alpha-blockers namely Cardura, Uroxatral, Hytrin and Flomax are also available which are very effective in reducing prostate enlargement. However, take these medications only after the prescription of the doctor as these may interfere with any other medication that you may be taking.

You can effectively decrease the enlargement of the prostate by taking a multivitamin tablet daily. Other than this, food products which are rich in fibers such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables and beans can also help you out in prevention of prostate enlargement. You can greatly reduce your risk of developing prostate problems by consuming 60 to 90 grams of fiber each day.

Omega-3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect and are even known to protect prostate cells. You can get hold of these fatty acids by including fresh water fishes such as tuna, trout, salmon in your diet, which are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil capsules and flaxseed oil can be used as a dietary supplement pill or powder.

There are several other supplements which can prevent prostate enlargement. Although studies are still being conducted on their effects but the initial outcome is certainly in its favor. For instance, zinc is known to assist in natural cell death and boost the immune system. However, you should take zinc supplements under a physician’s guidance. Lycopene carotene is associated with the prevention of prostate cancer, and thus can be used in the prevention of prostate enlargement. Kegel exercises have also shown positive results. Kegel exercises focus on contracting the muscles around anus and scrotum which increases the blood flow to the prostate tissues.

Unfortunately, you cannot avoid all the factors responsible for the enlargement of prostate. But, you can certainly increase your chances of early diagnosis and treatment if you are aware of these factors. For instance, you are more likely to face prostate enlargement if cases of prostatic cancer have occurred earlier in your family. Also, men above 55 years of age are at increased risk of developing an enlarged prostate. If you fall in any of the these categories, then its better for you to have regular screening.