Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate, is a common condition among aging men. According to the "Merck Manual of Geriatrics," this condition affects 50 percent of men by age 50 and 80 percent of men by age 80. BPH may cause obstruction of the bladder outlet with related symptoms of diminished urine flow, increased urinary frequency and urgency. Because they may indicate a more serious condition, it is advisable to check with a physician for an accurate diagnosis if you have these symptoms. There are a number of natural products that may help to maintain a healthy prostate.
Saw Palmetto
Supplements made from the berries of the "American Dwarf Palm" Serenoa repens, or saw palmetto, have a long track record of use for treating BPH. There have been a number of large studies to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of this supplement. While the results of these studies are somewhat inconsistent, a thorough literature review published in the January 2002 "Annals of Internal Medicine" concluded that there was "good" evidence for the safety and efficacy of this supplement for BPH.
Amino Acids
Though the exact mechanism is unclear, several studies have shown that supplementation of amino acids---specifically L-glutamate, L-alanine and glycine---can be helpful in alleviating the symptoms of BPH. Most of the men in these studies experienced improved urine flow, decreased urinary frequency and less urinary retention. The use of amino acids for BPH is further described in Melvin Werbach's book, "Nutritional Influences on Illness".
Zinc
A good deal of zinc is stored in the prostate and present in prostate secretions. This, along with the fact that many aging men do not consume adequate zinc in their diet, contributes to the notion that zinc supplementation might be helpful in maintaining prostate health. Daily supplementation of 150 mg of zinc for 2 to 4 months may be sufficient to compensate for low dietary intake.
Selenium
Selenium is also believed to be an important nutrient for prostate health. Many of us do not consume adequate selenium in our diet. Certain nuts (brazil nuts, walnuts) are good sources of selenium. Tuna fish is also a good source. Taking a supplement is also an option to ensure adequate intake of this nutrient.
Essential Fatty Acids
The body cannot manufacture or convert some fatty acids. These "essential" fatty acids must be obtained in the diet. Some of the essential oils that are believed to enhance prostate health are present in flax seed and flax seed oil. Working ground flax seed into recipes is an easy way to increase the intake of these fatty acids.
References
- Merck Manual of Geriatrics
- "Annals of Internal Medicine;" The Risk-Benefit Profile of Commonly Used Herbal Therapies: Ginko, St. John's Wort, Ginseng, Echinacea, Saw Palmetto, and Kava; E Ernst; January 2002
- "Nutritional Influences on Illness;" Melvin R. Werbach, MD; 1988
