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The prostate gland is a walnut-size organ that surrounds the urethra at the neck of the bladder. Some symptoms of prostate trouble are difficulty urinating and emptying the bladder, frequent urination, difficulty sleeping, backache, and feeling that an empty bladder is full. Risk factors for prostate cancer include smoking, family history and obesity.
Lycopene is a carotenoid that is good for the prostate. Researchers have found that Lycopene's antioxidant activity may aid in reversing the malignant process. A recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute ("Intake of Carotenoids and Retinol in Relation to Risk of Prostate Cancer") found that men who ate cooked tomato products were less likely to develop prostate cancer. Researchers found that men who consumed 10 or more servings of tomato-based foods a week were up to 45 percent less likely to develop prostate cancer. Cooked tomato products offered protective benefits, but raw tomatoes and tomato juice were found to offer little or no protection. The cooking process breaks down the tomatoes' cell walls and releases more Lycopene. Other sources of Lycopene are pink grapefruits, watermelons, and guavas.
Saw Palmetto (Seronoa repens) has been effectively used as a therapeutic herbal treatment for the prostate. The hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) contributes to the development of prostate disorders. Saw Palmetto inhibits the production of DHT, which reduces prostate enlargement and inflammation. It is available in health food stores and has no side effects.
Selenium is a mineral that is found in the prostate. Low levels of this mineral can cause prostate problems. This mineral can be taken as a supplement in tablet form combined with selenium rich foods, such as shellfish, garlic, chicken and grains.
Zinc is a mineral that is found in the prostate. Low levels of zinc can lead to prostate problems. A daily supplement of zinc can be combined with zinc-rich foods, such as lamb chops, clams, whole oatmeal, wheat germ, oysters, sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds.
Studies have shown that a high-fat diet contributes to prostate problems. High cholesterol levels are bad for the prostate. Cholesterol accumulation in the blood in the prostate damages cells. Red meat, such as beef, should be avoided. The theory is that animal fat contains estrogens that lower testosterone levels and stimulate cell growth. High-fat dairy products and hydrogenated oils should be avoided. A low-fat diet that is high in soy products is recommended. Foods that are good for the prostate include fruits, vegetables, fish oils (omega-3 fatty acids), garlic, chicken, oysters, lamb chops, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and soy products (miso, tofu, tempeh). Drinking at least six to eight glasses of water a day helps prevent prostate problems.
Hydrotheraphy relieves prostate pain and pressure. Sit in a sitz bath, alternating hot and cold water. This bath stimulates blood circulation and tones the muscles. The rest of the body should be covered during this bath.
An informative book on treating prostrate problems naturally is "Dr. Earl Mindell's What You Should Know About Natural Health for Men."
Always consult a physician before proceeding with any remedy.
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