The holiday season is meant to be a time for celebration, but for men living with BPH, it can also bring some difficult challenges. With social gatherings and disrupted routines, we tend to drink more and exercise less during this time of the year – two factors that ultimately have an effect on BPH.
Luckily, with a few simple strategies, you can enjoy the holidays while still keeping your prostate health in check. Here, we will explore the relationship between alcohol, exercise, and BPH, as well as provide you with practical tips to help you navigate the season with ease so you can focus on what truly matters – spending quality time with your loved ones.
It is not uncommon for us to consume more alcohol than usual during the holidays. While alcohol is not considered a direct cause of BPH, it is important to note that excess alcohol intake can worsen symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
These can include lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), such as:
Alcohol is inflammatory, and it can irritate the urinary tract. It can aggravate symptoms of BPH and possibly lead to localized inflammation in the prostate.
This inflammation can worsen symptoms such as frequent and urgent urination, which can make handling the condition more difficult for men. It can also obstruct the flow of urine, causing men to feel like they cannot fully empty their bladder.
Alcohol can also lead to dehydration. When you consume alcohol, it inhibits the release of an antidiuretic hormone called vasopressin. This hormone normally helps your kidneys reabsorb water, but when its release is inhibited, more water is excreted through urine.
If we see an increase in alcohol consumption over the holidays, then it is also common for us to see a decrease in exercise. We tend to be busy with things such as social activities, celebrations, and family gatherings, so exercising tends to get lost in all of that. “I’ll just start working out in the new year,” is something we often tell ourselves.
So, how does exercise affect BPH? Physical activity has been shown to have a positive impact on managing and potentially preventing BPH. It can help alleviate lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with BPH.
Excess weight is linked to increased prostate size and BPH symptoms. Regular exercise can help reduce body fat and mitigate these risks.
Physical exercise also has anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce chronic inflammation in the prostate, a key factor in the development of BPH.
Regular movement can increase circulation, which helps remove toxins and reduce inflammation that can irritate the bladder.
Additionally, exercise strengthens the pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder and urethra, improving control over urination and reducing urgency and frequency.
So, how can you manage your BPH symptoms during the holiday season? Here are some helpful tips you can follow so you can still enjoy your holiday season:
At BPH Canada, we offer innovative treatments for managing BPH any time of the year. Do not hesitate to reach out to our team. Book a consultation with us today for BPH symptom relief.
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