Written by Vanessa Laird - Naturopath Calanna Pharmacy WoreeOver the decades men’s reproductive health has often been ignored due to the conditioned ‘tough it out’ social stigma. When prostate issues arise it can often make them feel less masculine or embarrassed, which can result in detrimental consequences affecting their health and wellbeing.
The prostate is a walnut sized gland that sits underneath the bladder and is responsible for making fluid that becomes part of semen. As men begin to age, hormone changes begin to occur that may result in prostate conditions.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate) and prostate cancer is fast becoming a common occurrence amongst men over the age of 40. Prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer in the western world and is not normally seen in other countries. (3)
An enlarged prostate (Benign Prostate Hyperplasia - BPH) occurs due to hormonal changes related with aging. Testosterone levels reduce with age and other hormones such as oestrogen and other reproductive hormones increase. Oestrogen inhibits the elimination of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which leads to BPH. (2)
The enzyme 5-α-reductase also plays a role, contributing to the acceleration of prostatic growth. (2)
If you experience any of the following symptoms please consult your doctor:
· Frequent urge to urinate
· Burning or painful urination
· Difficulty urinating
· Blood in urine or semen
· Dribbling of urination
· Erection difficulties
· Nocturia (night time urination)
· Pain in pelvic and lower back area
· Reoccurring urinary tract infections or prostatic infections.
There are different types of prostate conditions; these include:
Acute prostatitis: This condition arises due to a bacterial infection causing fever, pain in the lower back and between the legs. Pain when urinating may also be present.
Chronic prostatitis: this results from reoccurring prostatic infections that usually last for a longer period of time. It is generally characterized by chronic pelvic pain and may be caused by a micro-organism (e.g. bacteria).
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): refers to an enlarged prostate that causes a number of symptoms including difficulty urinating, frequent urination and/or dribbling. These symptoms occur due to a hormonal imbalance that blocks the urethra and, if left untreated, kidney damage may occur. (1)
Prostate Cancer: cancer of the prostate may be a result of untreated BPH.
Factors that increase the risk of prostate conditions:
· On-going urinary tract infections
· Genetics
· Sexually transmitted diseases, such as gonorrhoea or chlamydia
· Smoking
· Excess alcohol consumption
· Age over 50
· Exposure to cold temperatures that cause urine retention may be a contributing factor.
Complementary Recommendations:
· Zinc has an important inhibitory effect on 5- α-reductase and is involved in androgen metabolism (2)
· Herbal Treatments such as Saw Palmetto may help improve urinary flow and reduce prostate volume. Quality of Saw Palmetto is a must, to ensure high levels of sterols and fatty acids. (1) Saw Palmetto may also work as a 5-α-reductase inhibitor. (2)
· Other herbs containing urinary antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic and/or hormone regulatory properties can also be of benefit.
· Phytoestrogens: can help remove elevated oestrogen levels, which is thought to inhibit the elimination of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in BPH. (1)
· Eat plenty of pumpkin seeds (pepitas) (2)
· Increase fibrous foods in the diet. Use psyllium husks or slippery elm to bind hormones and eliminate them from the body. (2)
· Cadmium toxicity from smoking has also shown to increase the enzyme 5- α-reductase. (2) Zinc supplementation can help remove cadmium from the body. (2)
· Massaging the prostate sometimes helps to release fluids.
· Warm baths also may provide relief.
· Other tests conducted by your doctor may include: PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) blood test. This antigen is made in the prostate gland; increased levels may indicate BPH. However the most effective test is a rectal examination.
Always consult a qualified health care professional before commencing any nutritional or herbal supplements. There are many other treatment options available through a personalized consultation.
References:
Osiecki, H. (2006). The Physician’s Handbook of Clinical Nutrition. Bioconcepts Publishing; Eagle Farm , Australia
Yarnell, E. and Abascal, K. (2008). Holistic Approaches to Prostate Cancer. Mary Ann Liebert Inc; Vol 14: No. 4.
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