Prostate health and well-being is vital for men, especially as they age. WHFoods reports that Benign prostatic hypertrophy and prostate cancer are common prostate disorders affecting men older than 50. Certain natural remedies such as saw palmetto, pumpkin seeds and selenium can prevent prostate disorders and promote health.
Saw Palmetto
Saw Palmetto use can be traced to ancient Mayan use for its medicinal properties. Today, the herb is used commonly throughout Europe for many ailments and disorders involving the prostate, most significant benign prostatic hypertrophy or BPH. BPH is also known as enlarged prostate, a disorder affecting men that includes symptoms of increased and pain urination. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that saw palmetto significantly improves symptoms of BPH and supports prostate health and function. Patients taking saw palmetto noticed improved prostate symptoms such as normal urinary flow and quality of life, according to the NIH. Researchers from the NIH note that saw palmetto may support prostate health similar to the drug Finasteride, a common prostate medication.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are characterized by their sweet and nutty taste and texture. They're a rich source of vitamins, minerals and nutrients such as manganese, magnesium, iron and essential fatty acids, according to WHFoods. Pumpkin seeds are noted for supporting prostate health. Research from WHFoods reports that pumpkin seeds and its extract can benefit men suffering from BPH. BPH is associated with overstimulation of the cells of the prostate caused by increased testosterone conversion. According to WHFoods, pumpkin seeds can naturally interrupt this mechanism and prevent common prostate complications. The exact mechanism by which pumpkin seeds support prostate health remains unknown to researchers, but it has been studied that pumpkin seeds offer many nutritional components that promote health, such as antioxidants. Pumpkin seeds contain carotenoids that have antioxidant abilities, promoting prostate health and preventing disease. WHFoods report that people with higher levels of pumpkin seed carotenoids have fewer risk of BPH and prostate complications.
Selenium
Selenium is an essential mineral that acts as an antioxidant by preventing harmful compounds from damaging cell membranes and DNA. Low levels of selenium have often been associated with a number of health conditions, including prostate cancer. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) reports that increasing selenium in your diet can significantly reduce the risk of prostate cancer and promote health. One study noted by the UMMC reported that people taking 200mcg selenium per day significantly lowered the risk of developing cancer of the prostate. Antioxidants such as selenium can support prostate health by reducing or preventing damage done to prostate cells and DNA, according to the UMMC. Dietary sources of selenium include wheat germ, fish, garlic, nuts and sunflower seeds.
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