Enlargement of your prostate gland -- a gland located in the male genitourinary tract, near the bladder -- is common, especially if you are a middle-aged man. An enlarged prostate gland, states the National Center for Biotechnology Information, may compress your urethra, causing difficulty urinating or other bladder problems. Numerous alternative supplements may be effective in treating or preventing prostate enlargement, but you should always clear the use of supplements with your doctor beforehand.
Enlarged Prostate
The precise cause of an enlarged prostate gland is currently unknown, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center, although certain factors may be associated with this condition. Aging-related factors and the testicles themselves may cause prostate gland growth. UMMC notes that men who have had testicular cancer -- and, therefore, their testicles removed -- at a young age do not develop prostate gland enlargement. If you are male, your likelihood of developing prostate gland enlargement significantly increases with age.
Helpful Alternative Supplements
Some alternative supplements may be helpful in preventing enlargement of your prostate, although not all supplements used for this health purpose are backed by extensive scientific research evidence. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," the following supplements may be appropriate in improving your prostate health: zinc, quercetin, selenium, essential fatty acids, L-alanine, L-glutamic acid, L-glycine, berry seeds complex, magnesium plus calcium and vitamin C with bioflavonoids.
Highlighted Supplement
Quercetin, an anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor flavonoid, may be one of the best alternative dietary supplements in treating or preventing enlarged prostate. According to UMMC, quercetin has been used in treating numerous health problems, including prostate problems, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, hypertension, elevated cholesterol levels, heart disease, allergies, asthma, hay fever and hives. Quercetin is just one of numerous bioflavonoids -- a collection of plant pigments your body cannot produce on its own.
Considerations
An enlarged prostate gland may be difficult to treat. The best approach to this health problem may involve taking preventive action before your prostate becomes enlarged. The use of alternative dietary supplements for prostate enlargement does not guarantee a cure or even a favorable health result. You should always understand the limitations and risks of dietary supplements before using these powerful natural substances. Only use dietary supplements if you are under the care of a licensed health professional.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Enlarged Prostate
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Enlarged Prostate
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Quercetin
