Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Nutritional Considerations

Research studies have examined the relationship between dietary factors and the risk of BPH. The following factors are associated with reduced risk in epidemiologic studies:  

• Limiting or avoiding animal products and vegetable oils: Several studies have implicated high total meat and animal product (particularly beef and dairy products) intake in BPH. The Health Professionals Follow–Up Study found that higher intakes of total protein, animal protein, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and vegetable oils were all associated with BPH.
• Soy product intake: Epidemiologic evidence shows that Asian men have a lower risk for prostate disease than their Western counterparts; the difference appears to be associated in part with higher intake of isoflavones found in Asian foods, particularly soy products. 
• Lower energy intake: Some studies have shown an association between higher caloric intake and a greater risk for BPH. The Health Professionals Follow–Up Study reported a 50 percent increase in risk for BPH in men who took in the most calories compared with men who ate the fewest, as well as a 70 percent higher risk for moderate–to–severe symptoms in men consuming the most calories.