Most men between the ages of 40 and 45 experience a gradual increase in enlarged prostate. An increased urge to urinate and weak urinary flow effects of prostatic hyperplasia are common signs of an alteration in the male hormonal balance.
Close to 50% of men in their fifties and as many as 75% of men between the ages of 60 and 70 suffer from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
BPH causing a narrowing of the urethra and promoting bladder problems.The exact cause of prostate enlargement is not fully understood. Although the body normally turns ordinary testosterone into a very potent form called dihydrotestosterone (DHT), it can cause an enlargement when there is too much DHT. Wrapping around the urethra, the tube that allows urine to exit the bladder, a swollen prostate gland acts like a clamp, sometimes resulting in problems with urination.
Symptoms of BPH include:
Getting up frequently at night to urinate.
More frequent urges to urinate.
Diminished, weakened stream.
Feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder.
Pain and burning sensation.
Left untreated, prostate problems can prevent the bladder from emptying itself completely. As the volume of residual urine increases, a humid environment creates the perfect conditions for the proliferation of bacteria.
This can cause urinary tract infections, with symptoms of pain and fever. The final stage of benign prostatic hyperplasia can cause acute urine retention which is extremely painful.
Natural Solution to BPH:
Saw palmetto, a very beneficial and well-studied herb, provides great therapy for the enlarged prostate. In fact, one study showed significant improvement in 45 days with only mild or no side effects.
Hydrangea root or horsetail are often used to reduce the inflammation of the prostate gland. Nettle root tincture or capsules are also helpful. In fact, scientific studies have proved its ability to diminish this enlarged gland. Amounts used in successful studies range from 6-12 mL of tincture per day in divided doses, or 120 mg capsules twice a day.
The mineral zinc may halt the processing of testosterone into DHT and thus may prevent or even reverse the condition. Pumpkin seeds from your garden are an excellent source of zinc, especially if you fertilize with kelp, and may contain other helpful substances as well. Eating 2 ounces of pumpkin seeds per day significantly boosts your zinc intake. Some people prefer to take zinc supplements for BPH. If you decide to supplement with zinc, use no more than 50 mg per day for three months and include a copper supplement of 2 mg per day. These two minerals compete for absorption zinc will win out and cause a copper deficiency if you're not careful. Look for a zinc supplement that includes copper.
Keep in shape and maintain an active lifestyle by walking or doing some exercise to slow down the aging process, one of the main causes of BPH. Research suggests that pygeum (P. africanum) helps to reduce nocturnal symptoms, hesitancy, and urgency (30-40% reduction in symptoms). Lycopene, Vitamin D, pomegranate juice, and omega-3 fatty acids as supplements that have been shown to have a protective role in the prevention of prostate cancer.
Avoid bicycling, the sitting position compresses the prostate
Cold temperatures exacerbate the symptoms.
Make sure you keep the abdomen warm.
Do not drink too much before going to bed to prevent nighttime visits to the bathroom.
Don't ignore the need to go to the bathroom.
Fully empty the bladder. Void your bladder every time you urinate.
Constipation can aggravate the prostate problems, so it is important to have good bowel health.
Stop smoking, if possible.
Pay attention to certain prescription drugs; diuretic, antispasmodic, tranquilizers and some anti-depressants worsen BPH
After age 45, do not neglect yearly medical exams.
Food
Avoid drinking chilled beverages or iced cocktails. Cold drinks do more harm than good and can cause a sudden blockage of the urinary track, resulting in difficult and painful urination.
Reduce alcohol intake
Reduce caffeine intake; coffee substitute is a great alternative.
Drink plenty of water and lemon and empty bladder regularly.
Avoid substances that irritate the prostate gland: pepper, hot peppers, spices
Maintain a diet high in fiber, vitamins and minerals
Are best avoided: saturated fats, such as those in most processed foods, dairy products, red meats and hard fats. Replace by cold pressed vegetable oils.
A diet low in fat and red meat and high in protein and vegetables, as well as regular alcohol consumption, may reduce the risk of symptomatic BPH.
Vegetarian foods, raw fruit and vegetables, soy products and pulses including linseed are useful in bringing relief.
Dr. George Grant is considered by his peers as Canada‘s Wellness Ambassador & Champion. He is the founder & CEO of Academy of Wellness in 1983. Dr Grant enjoys a stellar academic background as well as a fascinating career in research. He is a scientist, professor, analytical chemist, toxicologist, pharmacologist, microbiologist, nutritionist, biofeedback, stress management & pain specialist, and indoor air quality specialist. Dr Grant is the author of 7 best selling books, former Scientist at University of Saskatchewan‘s Faculty of Pharmacy and Nutrition, Professor at Seneca College in Toronto, and Senior Consultant for Health Canada as well as in private practice.
Prof. Dr. Grant is among International Who’s Who of Professionals. He has 100 published articles, conference presentations, book reviews and 7 bestselling books, including a chapter in 100 ways to improve your life with Mark Victor Hanson, the author of Chicken Soup for the Soul. Dr Grant helped 7 Olympic athletes to remain competitive. Dr. Grant helped thousands of his clients, corporations and non profit organizations worldwide through his passion for wellness and compassion for his clients. He pioneered the research of Beta Endorphins on SIDS at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sask., Saskatoon, Sask. Canada in 1981.