Natural therapies for prostate health

Prostate health often gets overlooked, but it's essential for men's well-being as they age. Factors like hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and oxidative stress can contribute to prostate issues, making it important to take proactive steps. Natural therapies, including specific nutrients and herbs, can play a supportive role. Let's explore how incorporating these nutrients and herbs through diet and supplements can be a game-changer for prostate care.

What does the prostate do?

The prostate is a gland located beneath the bladder about the size of a small apricot. It has three main functions:

• Produce fluid which nourishes sperm (making up about one-third of the volume of semen)
• Propel semen into the urethra during ejaculation
• Regulate the flow of urine

Inflammation, oxidative stress, dietary influences and changes to testosterone levels are considered risk factors for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between antioxidants and pro-oxidants

Enlarged Prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia)

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is associated with ageing and considered the most common prostate health problem experienced by men. The incidence of BPH is as high as 50% to 60% for males in their 60's, increasing to 80% to 90% of those over 70 years of age. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) refers to the non-malignant (meaning not likely to be cancer) growth (hyperplasia) of prostate tissue and may be the cause of urinary  symptoms such as: 

• Frequent and/or uncomfortable urination
• An inability to completely empty the bladder
• Experiencing an interrupted, weak or “dribbly” stream of urine

Herbal Therapies for Prostate Health

Some of the risk factors for the development of benign prostate hyperplasia include hormone imbalances, age, genetics, inflammation and oxidative stress. Studies have shown that certain herbal and nutritional supplements may support the health of the prostate.

Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is used in traditional Western herbal medicine to lower urinary tract symptoms commonly associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia. A 2015 open trial of 165 benign prostatic hyperplasia patients showed that 160mg of saw palmetto extract per day improved quality of life and symptoms after 6 weeks of treatment. After 12 weeks, there was also improvement to urinary flow rate and ability to empty the bladder.

Pumpkin Seed

Pumpkin seed extract (Cucurbita pepo) may offer anti-inflammatory action and reduce the risk of  lower urinary tract symptoms and benign prostatic hyperplasia. 

Small Flowered Willow 

Small Flowered Willow (Epilobium) extracts show potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, with particular action in the prostate. 

Nettle Leaf

Nettle leaf (Urtica dioica) has been shown in studies to reduce the symptoms of benign prostate hyperplasia.

Nutrients for prostate health

When it comes to prostate health, nutrition plays a powerful role. Research shows that certain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants may help balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and even support prostate cells. Here’s a breakdown of key nutrients and foods:

Zinc

Zinc is essential for hormone regulation and prostate health. Studies suggest it can support the immune system and reduce inflammation in the prostate. Find it in oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and chickpeas.

Selenium

A potent antioxidant, selenium helps combat oxidative stress, which may reduce the risk of prostate issues. You can get it from Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, and fish like tuna and sardines.

Lycopene  

This antioxidant, found in tomatoes, watermelon, and pink grapefruit, may lower the risk of prostate problems by reducing oxidative damage to cells. Pro tip: cooking tomatoes increases lycopene availability—think canned tomatoes and tomato paste for an extra boost! 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, Omega-3s can help maintain prostate health. They’re found in fatty fish like salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts.

Check your prostate

When it comes to prostate health, early detection can make a significant difference. For men aged 50-69 with no family history of prostate cancer, regular PSA blood tests every two years are key to keeping on top of things. However, if prostate cancer runs in your family, it’s worth talking to your doctor about starting these tests earlier, around age 40-45, depending on your risk. Catching it early gives you a much better chance of managing your health effectively. Ao don’t put it off, get proactive and take control!

Wrapping it all up

Incorporating natural therapies alongside regular check-ups can play a vital role in supporting prostate health. From saw palmetto to selenium, these natural options can complement traditional approaches and help keep your prostate functioning optimally. Remember, staying proactive with both heath screenings and lifestyle choices is the best way to protect your health. Talk to your healthcare professional to find the right balance for you, and take charge of your wellness journey!

References

1. NIH Publication No. 14-3012 (2014) Prostate Enlargement: Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/urologic-disease/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia-bph/Pages/facts.aspx
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3. Antwi, S. O., et al. (2016) Carotenoid Intake and Adipose Tissue Carotenoid Levels in Relation to Prostate Cancer Aggressiveness among African-American and European-American Men in the North Carolina-Louisiana Prostate Cancer Project (PcaP). Prostate, 76:12, 1053 – 1066. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5080909/
4. Minutoli, L., et al. (2014) Inhibitors of apoptosis proteins in experimental benign prostatic hyperplasia: effects of serenoa repens, selenium and lycopene. J Biomed Sci., 21:1, 19. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3995880/
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6. Ju, X. B., et al. (2015) Efficacy and safety of Saw Palmetto Extract Capsules in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Zhonghua Nan Ke Xue, 21:12, 1098 – 1101. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26817302
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12. Stolarczyk, M., Naruszewicz, M. & Kiss, A. K. (2013) Extracts from Epilobium sp. herbs induce apoptosis in human hormone-dependent prostate cancer cells by activating the mitochondrial pathway. J Pharm Pharmacol., 65:7, 1044 – 1054. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23738732
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