Natural Remedies for Enlarged Prostate

Herbal Supplements

Herbal supplements have been some of the most effective holistic treatments for an enlarged prostate. Here are some ingredients to keep an eye on:

Herbal Supplements

• Saw Palmetto - BPH can be caused by overactive or overabundant testosterone. Saw palmetto is a plant that has been observed to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase and reduce DHT levels, which can help neutralize the detrimental effects testosterone can have on the prostate. Still, there have been mixed results regarding the effectiveness of saw palmetto, with some studies finding that it works to reduce BPH and others saying it is no more effective than a placebo.
• Beta-Sitosterol - Beta-sitosterol is a chemical that is derived from plants and whose mechanisms are similar to cholesterol. It has been suggested that beta-sitosterol can help improve urinary issues caused by BPH.
• Pygeum - Pygeum is derived from an African plum tree and has been used to treat BPH. Pygeum may be able to reduce the inflammation that can lead to an enlarged prostate and improve urinary function.
• Rye Grass Pollen Extract - When prostate cells grow unchecked, it can cause issues with the gland. While studies on Rye Grass Pollen Extract have been limited, some of them suggest that it can inhibit excessive prostate cell growth and inflammation.

Robert James- Section Chief, Dept of Urology at Sutter Medical Group

Beta-sitosterol, Pygeum, and Rye Grass Pollen Extract show potential in alleviating symptoms of BPH. Beta-sitosterol may improve urinary issues, Pygeum can reduce inflammation, and Rye Grass Pollen Extract may inhibit excessive prostate cell growth. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits.

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Dietary Considerations

If you're looking for ways to reduce an enlarged prostate without relying on herbal supplements, consider incorporating a Prostate Health Diet into your routine. These dietary changes can help combat the effects of BPH and support overall prostate health.

• Lycopene-Rich Foods - Lycopene is a type of antioxidant that can negate the effects that free radical cells can have on the prostate. Some examples of lycopene-rich foods include tomatoes, watermelon, and grapefruit.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids - Omega-3 fatty acids also have anti-inflammatory effects that can benefit prostate function and longevity. Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids have a ton of other health benefits as well, including but not limited to improved cognitive function and obesity prevention. Examples of omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods include salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed.
• Zinc-Rich Foods - Zinc is a mineral found naturally in the prostate and is thought to be essential for healthy prostate function. In addition, studies have suggested that a lack of zinc in your diet could put you at higher risk of developing an enlarged prostate. You can increase your dietary zinc intake by eating foods like sesame seeds, almonds, and pumpkin seeds.
• Caffeine & Alcohol Moderation - In addition to foods that benefit your prostate, there are foods and beverages you should avoid. Limiting caffeine and alcohol intake has been linked to reduced risk of prostate issues. Excessive alcohol intake can exacerbate inflammation that affects the prostate and in general, weakens the immune system. Caffeine may proliferate the growth and acceleration of prostate cells, which may cause issues.

Lifestyle Modifications

Lifestyle Modifications

A healthier lifestyle will also limit your risk of developing enlarged prostate. Here are some helpful lifestyle tips for a healthier prostate:

• Regular Exercise - According to the Harvard Health team, “Men who engaged in five or more hours of exercise a week were 30% to 50% less likely to develop BPH than men who exercised less than two hours a week. Men who had the highest levels of both occupational and recreational physical activity were 60% less likely to develop the condition.” This study quote indicates that regular exercise can significantly reduce your risk of developing benign prostatic hyperplasia in the first place.
• Double Voiding - The double voiding technique entails urinating, waiting a few moments, and then attempting to void your bladder again. This can help dispel urinary issues that arise with the onset of BPH. And make no mistake about it, urinary complications are some of the most common complaints among men who suffer from benign prostatic hyperplasia and enlarged prostate.
• Fluid Management - One of the most common symptoms of BPH is nocturia, or the need to urinate frequently during the night. Managing how much fluid you drink before bed can help limit symptoms like nocturia. Generally, you will want to limit the amount of fluids you drink within a couple hours of your bedtime.
• Pelvic Floor Exercise - Pelvic floor exercises (kegels) can strengthen your pelvic muscles and improve urinary control that has been compromised by BPH.

Considerations and Precautions

In order to limit your risk of BPH and its effect on your life if you have it, you should take certain health precautions like consulting your healthcare practitioner before you start any supplement regimen or make significant lifestyle changes that could endanger your prostate.

You should also stay keenly aware of your symptoms if you already have an enlarged prostate. While herbs for prostate health and regular exercise are great for managing BPH symptoms, you should also keep track of whether your symptoms are intensifying or waning day-by-day.

This will help you and your healthcare practitioner get a better idea of what treatments are and aren’t working for you and provide a basic guide for what kind of treatments might work for you going forward.