The prostate is a small, walnut-sized gland located just under the bladder and behind the penis. The substances it secretes enhance fertility and help sperm survive to reach the egg during intercourse. Your prostate can develop problems ranging from Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy, or BPH, a benign enlargement, to cancer. If you are having symptoms or considering a new treatment, talk with your doctor first, as issues involving the prostate can be serious and even life-threatening.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and fish oil supplements can help protect your prostate from cancer. The good fats found in fish oil are especially helpful when you also avoid dietary trans fats from hydrogenated oils and margarine.
Zinc
A study published in "Nutrition and Cancer" found that taking moderate zinc supplements over a period of 10 years reduces your risk of advanced prostate cancer. In this study, the overall risk of developing prostate cancer remained the same between men who did and did not take zinc; but men who took zinc were far less likely to have advanced stages of prostate cancer.
Pumpkin Seeds and Pumpkin Seed Oil
Pumpkin seeds and pumpkin seed oil, whether eaten or taken as a supplement, can help prevent your prostate from enlarging. This condition, called BPH, commonly affects men over the age of 50, partially in response to high levels of testosterone and DHT, or dihydrotestosterone. Compounds in pumpkin seeds may disrupt the testosterone-generated signals for prostate cells to divide and multiply.
Saw Palmetto
The Mayo Clinic cites the herb saw palmetto, or Serenoa repens, as an effective treatment for symptoms of enlarged prostate, or BPH. Although the exact mechanism of action is unclear, research indicates that saw palmetto may stop your body from converting testosterone to harmful DHT.
