Alternative Ways to Combat Prostate Enlargement
Prostate enlargement happens in one out of three men over 50. Symptoms include sleep affected because of nighttime awakening to empty the bladder, reduced force and speed of emptying the bladder, increasing frequency of trips to the loo and unable to stop the dribble.
Prostate problems usually occur in the form of non-cancerous growths, cancerous tumour, chronic inflammation or prostate enlargement. Among these, prostate enlargement is the most common.
In medical terms, prostate enlargement is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This prostate disorder, which is related to hormonal changes, happens in one out of three men over the age of 50. In BPH. the male hormone, namely dihy-drotestosterone (DHT) is elevated and stimulates the prostate cells to multiply excessively and eventually causes the prostate to enlarge. DHT is converted from testosterone by the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase.
As the prostate lies below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, an enlarged prostate causes narrowing of the urethra and gradually results in urination problem. Frequent nighttime urination, urgency to urinate, weak urine stream, sensation of incomplete emptying and difficulty starting or stopping urination are symptoms experienced by men with BPH.
Drugs such as alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors relax the smooth muscles in the prostate so that urine can pass more freely. However, some patients may develop adverse effects, such as weakness, tiredness and headaches. The 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor drugs prevent the conversion of testosterone to DHT in the prostate, leading to gradual shrinkage of the gland. Effective as they may be, it is known to cause decreased sexual desire, impotence and decreased volume of ejaculation.
Herbal Remedies
In some European countries, the Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens/serrulata) berry is considered first-line therapy for mild to moderate prostate enlargement. The berry, originating from North America, is believed to inhibit the actions of DHT in the prostate and prevent 5-alpha-reductase from converting testosterone to DHT. It is also able to help reduce inflammation, muscle spasms and swelling in the prostate.
Pumpkin seed is another traditional remedy for prostate enlargement frequently recommended by doctors of natural medicine. The use of pumpkin seeds for BPH is approved in Germany.
Pumpkin seeds are rich in unsaturated fatty acids; oleic and linoleic acid, as well as contain anti-tumour properties.
Dietary Approach
A well-balanced diet plays an important role in the management of BPH. Consume a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, fibre, plant pigments and other compounds that provide protective and healing effects. Nuts and seeds are good sources of zinc. An adequate amount of zinc intake is important to ensure proper functions of enzymatic and hormonal activities. Fifteen milligrams of elemental zinc can be taken daily to maintain normal functions of the reproductive and urinary organ. Avoid alcohol beverages as they not only cause zinc deficiency, but deplete the amount of vitamin B6 that helps in the absorption of zinc.
Fatty foods promote prostate enlargement. Limit saturated fats from red meat and hydro-genated fats from processed foods like margarine and vegetable shortening.
Essential fatty acids such as Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9 help in reducing inflammation of the prostate gland. Consumethe good oils from cold deep sea fishes such as salmon, mackerel, herrings and sardines that are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids. Beneficial good fatty acids supplements include fish oil, evening primrose oil and flaxseed oil.
Healthy Lifestyle
Efficient blood flow to the prostate is crucial for maintaining proper prostate function. Regular and moderate exercise helps blood circulation. Abstinence from smoking is indeed important as chemical compounds in cigarettes can cause constriction of blood vessels.
Manage stress effectively as excess stress produces elevated prolactin levels, a hormone that accelerates multiplication of prostate cells.