Prostate health dietary supplements: review

Posted on by

Prostate health dietary supplements: review

I. Anatomy and prostate physiology: key points for understanding problems

Before considering dietary supplements for the health of the prostate, a clear understanding of the anatomy and physiology of this gland is necessary. The prostate is a small gland the size of a walnut located in men directly under the bladder and surrounding the urethra (urethra). Its main function is the production of a secret that is part of the sperm. This secret contains substances necessary to maintain the viability and mobility of sperm, and also has protective properties.

  • Prostate structure: The prostate consists of several zones: peripheral, central, transition and fibromoscular. The peripheral zone is the largest and most often susceptible to the development of prostate cancer. The transition zone, on the contrary, most often increases with benign prostate hyperplasia (DHCH).

  • The role of hormones: The growth and functioning of the prostate is regulated by male sex hormones, primarily testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DGT). Testosterone, produced by testicles, turns into DGT under the influence of a 5-alpha reductase enzyme. DGT has a stronger effect on the prostate, stimulating its growth.

  • Prostate functions in the reproductive system: The secret of the prostate is about 20-30% of the volume of sperm. It contains zinc, citric acid, prostaglandins and other substances that support spermatozoa, protect them from exposure to the acidic environment of the vagina and contribute to fertilization.

  • Influence of age: Changes in the hormonal balance occur with age, which can lead to an increase in the prostate (DGPH) and an increase in the risk of developing other diseases of the prostate. A decrease in testosterone levels and a change in the ratio of testosterone and DGT play an important role in these processes.

  • The relationship with urination: An enlarged prostate can squeeze the urethra, causing urination problems, such as frequent urination, difficult urinating, a weak stream of urine, a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder and night calls to urination (nicturia).

II. Common diseases of the prostate: review and symptoms

The most common prostate diseases are:

  • Benign prostate hyperplasia (DGPZH): This is an increase in the size of the prostate, which is a natural aging process in men. As the prostate increases, it can squeeze the urethra, which leads to obstruction of the urinary tract and problems with urination.

    • Symptoms of DHCH:
      • Frequent urination, especially at night (Nicturia).
      • The difficult start of urination.
      • Weak or intermittent stream of urine.
      • A feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder.
      • The need for stress during urination.
      • Sudden urination.
      • Urine incontinence.

  • Prostatitis: This is inflammation of the prostate gland. Prostatitis can be bacterial or abacterial. Bacterial prostatitis is caused by infection and can be acute or chronic. Abacterial prostatitis is not associated with infection and is more common.

    • Symptoms of prostatitis:
      • Pain in the pelvic, perineum, lower back or scrotum.
      • Pain during urination (dysuria).
      • Frequent urination.
      • Painful ejaculation.
      • Blood in sperm (hemospermia).
      • Fever (with acute bacterial prostatitis).
      • General malaise.

  • Prostate cancer: This is a malignant tumor that develops in the prostate gland. Prostate cancer often develops slowly and may not cause any symptoms in the early stages.

    • Symptoms of prostate cancer (in the late stages):
      • Symptoms similar to DGPZH (difficulty urination, frequent urination, weak stream of urine).
      • Bone pain (with bone metastases).
      • Erectile dysfunction.
      • Blood in the urine (hematuria).
      • Blood in sperm (hemospermia).

III. Prostate health dietary supplements: active ingredients and action mechanisms

Many dietary supplements designed to maintain prostate health contain various active ingredients, which are believed to have a beneficial effect on the prostate gland. It is important to note that the effectiveness of many of these additives has not been finally proved in major clinical studies, and their use should be discussed with a doctor.

  • SAW Palmetto palm extract: This is perhaps the most studied dietary supplement for the treatment of DGPZH. It is believed that it inhibits the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, thereby reducing the level of DGT in the prostate and reducing its size. Saw Palmetto also has anti -inflammatory properties. Some studies show that Saw Palmetto can improve the symptoms of DHCH, such as frequent urination, night urination and a weak stream of urine. However, other studies did not find a significant difference between Saw Palmetto and placebo.

  • Beta Sitosterin: This is a plant sterol contained in various plants, including Saw Palmetto. It is assumed that beta-sytosterin improves the symptoms of DGPZ by reducing inflammation and improving the outflow of urine. Some studies show that beta-sytosterin can improve the symptoms of DHCH, such as frequent urination, night urination and residual urine volume.

  • Pygeum Africanum (African plum cortex extract): This extract contains phytosterols, which are believed to have anti -inflammatory properties and can inhibit the growth of prostate cells. Pygeum Africanum can also improve the elasticity of the bladder and alleviate the symptoms of DHCH. Some studies show that Pygeum Africanum can improve the symptoms of DHCH, such as frequent urination, night urination and residual urine.

  • Floral pollen of rye (Cernilton): This extract contains various biologically active compounds, which are believed to have anti -inflammatory, antioxidant and decongestant properties. Cernilton can improve the symptoms of DHCS and prostatitis. Some studies show that Cernilton can improve the symptoms of DGPZ, such as frequent urination, night urination and pain during urination.

  • Liquopin: This is a carotenoid contained in tomatoes and other red fruits and vegetables. Lycopine is a powerful antioxidant and can protect the prostate cells from damage caused by free radicals. Some studies show that lycopine can reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

  • Zinc: This is an important mineral that plays a role in the functioning of the immune system and the metabolism of testosterone. Zinc is also an important component of the secret of the prostate. Zinc deficiency can lead to an increase in the risk of developing prostate diseases. Some studies show that zinc additives can improve prostatitis symptoms.

  • Selenium: This is another important mineral that has antioxidant properties and can protect the prostate cells from damage. Selenium also plays a role in the functioning of the immune system. Some studies show that selenium can reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

  • Quercetin: This is a flavonoid contained in various fruits and vegetables. Quercetin has anti -inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some studies show that quercetin can improve prostatitis symptoms.

  • Urtica dioica Extract): It is believed that nettle root extract helps reduce inflammation and improve urination, which can be useful for DHCH. It is often combined with Saw Palmetto.

  • Vitamin D: Low vitamin D levels are associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer. Vitamin D additives can be useful for men with a deficiency of this vitamin.

IV. Clinical studies of dietary supplements for prostate health: evidence of effectiveness

Evidence of the effectiveness of dietary supplements for prostate health is ambiguous. Many studies have small samples, poor quality or conflicting results.

  • Saw Palmetto: SAW Palmetto studies are shown that it can slightly improve the symptoms of DHCH, such as frequent urination and night urination. However, other meta analyzes did not find a significant difference between Saw Palmetto and placebo. It is important to note that the effectiveness of the Saw Palmetto can depend on the dose and quality of the extract.

  • Beta Sitosterin: Some studies show that beta-sytosterin can improve the symptoms of DHCH, such as frequent urination, night urination and residual urine volume. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.

  • Pygeum African: Pygeum Africanum meta-analyzes show that it can improve the symptoms of DHCH, such as frequent urination, night urination and residual urine volume. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.

  • Liquopin: Some epidemiological studies show that the high consumption of lycopene is associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer. However, additional clinical studies are needed to confirm this effect.

  • Zinc and selenium: Some studies show that zinc and selenium additives can reduce the risk of prostate cancer. However, other studies did not find this effect.

V. The choice of dietary supplements for the health of the prostate: what to consider

When choosing dietary supplements for the health of the prostate, the following factors should be taken into account:

  • Composition: Make sure that the additive contains ingredients whose effectiveness is confirmed by clinical research. Check the dosage of each ingredient and make sure that it corresponds to the recommended.

  • Quality: Choose additives from reliable manufacturers who adhere to the quality standards GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice). Look for additives that have passed an independent check by the third party.

  • Safety: Make sure that the additive does not contain ingredients that you are allergic or which can interact with other drugs that you take.

  • Price: Compare prices for different additives and select the one that corresponds to your budget.

  • Reviews: Read the reviews of other users to learn about their experience of using the additives.

VI. Possible side effects and interaction of dietary supplements for prostate health

Dietary supplements for the health of the prostate, like any other additives, can cause side effects and interact with other drugs. It is important to discuss the use of dietary supplements with a doctor before starting their appointment.

  • Saw Palmetto: Possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness and headache. Saw Palmetto can also interact with anticoagulants (blood liquefaction with drugs).

  • Beta Sitosterin: Possible side effects include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

  • Pygeum African: Possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation.

  • Zinc: High doses of zinc can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and copper deficiency. Zinc can also interact with some antibiotics.

  • Selenium: High doses of selenium can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss and nerves damage.

  • Liquopin: High consumption of lycopene can cause lycopenemia (increased level of lycopene in the blood), which can lead to yellowing of the skin.

VII. Alternative methods for maintaining prostate health

In addition to taking dietary supplements, there are other methods that can help maintain prostate health:

  • Healthy nutrition: Use a lot of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Limit the consumption of red meat, processed products and sugar.

  • Regular physical exercises: Do physical exercises for at least 30 minutes a day of most days of the week.

  • Maintaining a healthy weight: Excess weight can increase the risk of prostate diseases.

  • Restriction of alcohol and caffeine: Alcohol and caffeine can irritate the bladder and aggravate the symptoms of DHPH.

  • Regular examinations at the doctor: Regularly visit a doctor to examine the prostate, especially if you have symptoms of prostate diseases.

  • Stress management: Stress can aggravate the symptoms of prostate diseases. Find the ways of managing stress, such as meditation, yoga or tai-chi.

  • Avoid long sitting: Long -term sitting can exert pressure on the prostate. Try to take breaks and move every 30 minutes.

VIII. Diagnosis of prostate diseases: what tests should be taken

Various tests are used to diagnose prostate diseases:

  • A finger rectal examination (pro): The doctor introduces a lubricated finger into the rectum for palpation of the prostate. This allows you to evaluate the size, shape and consistency of the prostate and identify any anomalies.

  • Blood test for prostat-specific antigen (PSA): The dog is a protein that is produced by prostate cells. The increased level of the dog in the blood can be a sign of DGPZ, prostatitis or prostate cancer.

  • Urine analysis: Analysis of urine can identify the presence of an infection or other diseases of the urinary tract.

  • Ultrasound examination (ultrasound) of prostate: Ultrasound of the prostate allows you to visualize the prostate and evaluate its size and structure. Transrectal ultrasound (Trusie) is carried out using a sensor, which is introduced into the rectum.

  • Prostate biopsy: Prostate biopsy is a procedure in which a sample of prostate tissue is taken for research under a microscope. Prostate biopsy is usually performed if the patient has an increased PSA level or if anomalies are found with a finger examination.

  • Urophumetry: This test measures the speed and volume of urine. It can help determine the degree of obstruction of the urinary tract caused by the DGPG.

  • Determination of the residual volume of urine: This test measures the amount of urine remaining in the bladder after urination.

IX. Modern methods of treating prostate diseases

Modern methods of treating prostate diseases depend on a specific disease and its severity.

  • DGS:

    • Medication: Alpha blockers (for example, Tamsulosin, alfuzosin) relax the muscles of the prostate and bladder, facilitating urination. 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (for example, finsteride, dutasteride) reduce the size of the prostate, blocking the transformation of testosterone into DGT.
    • Small -invasive procedures: Transuretral resection of the prostate (turp) is a surgical procedure in which part of the prostate tissue is removed through the urethra. Transuretral incisions of the prostate (Tuip) is a surgical procedure in which small incisions are done in the prostate to expand the urethra. Prostate laser ablation – the use of a laser to remove prostate fabric.
    • Surgical treatment: Open prostatectomy is a surgical procedure in which the prostate is removed through an incision in the stomach.

  • Prostatitis:

    • Bacterial prostatitis: Antibiotic treatment.
    • Abacterial prostatitis: Treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs, alpha blockers, physiotherapy and other methods.

  • Prostate cancer:

    • Active observation: Regular cancer monitoring, but without immediate treatment. Suitable for slowly growing tumors.
    • Radiation therapy: The use of high -energy rays to destroy cancer cells.
    • Surgical treatment: Radical prostatectomy – surgical removal of prostate and surrounding tissues.
    • Hormonal therapy: Reducing the level of testosterone to slow down cancer cell growth.
    • Chemotherapy: Using drugs to destroy cancer cells.
    • Target therapy: The use of drugs that are aimed at specific molecules involved in the growth of cancer cells.
    • Immunotherapy: Stimulating the immune system to combat cancer.

X. The role of lifestyle in the prevention of prostate diseases

A healthy lifestyle plays an important role in the prevention of prostate diseases.

  • Balanced diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and lean proteins can help reduce the risk of prostate diseases. Limit the consumption of red meat, processed products and sugar.

  • Regular physical exercises: Regular physical exercises can help maintain healthy weight, improve blood circulation and strengthen the immune system, which can reduce the risk of prostate diseases.

  • Maintaining a healthy weight: Excess weight can increase the risk of prostate diseases.

  • Refusal of smoking: Smoking is associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer.

  • Moderate alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of prostate diseases.

  • Regular medical examinations: Regular medical examinations, including a finger rectal examination and a blood test for a dog, can help detect prostate diseases in the early stages when it is easier to treat them.

  • Sufficient water consumption: Drinking a sufficient amount of water helps to maintain the health of the urinary tract and can reduce the risk of prostatitis.

  • Regular sexual activity: Some studies show that regular ejaculation can reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

XI. Bad and medicine: interaction and safety

It is important to understand the interaction between dietary supplements and the medicines that you take. Many dietary supplements can affect the effect of drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect, or causing undesirable side effects.

  • Anticoagulants: Bades, such as Saw Palmetto, ginkgo biloba and garlic, can strengthen the effect of anticoagulants (drugs thinning), such as warfarin and clopidogrel, which can increase the risk of bleeding.

  • Antidiabetic drugs: Bades, such as ginseng and chrome, can affect blood sugar and interact with antidiabetic drugs such as metformin and insulin.

  • Antihypertensive drugs: Bades, such as Coenzyme Q10 and Magnesium, can reduce blood pressure and interact with antihypertensive drugs such as amlodipine and lysinopril.

  • Immunocationthretarite: Bades, such as echinacea and astral, can stimulate the immune system and interact with immunosuppressants, such as cyclosporin and tacrolimus.

  • Medications metabolized through CYP450: Many dietary supplements can affect the CYP450 enzymes, which are involved in the metabolism of many drugs. This can lead to a change in the level of drugs in the blood and an increase in the risk of side effects.

Always inform your doctor about all dietary supplements and medicines that you take to avoid undesirable interactions and ensure the safety of treatment.

XII. Future areas of dietary supplements for prostate health

Studies of dietary supplements for the health of the prostate are ongoing, and future directions include:

  • Search for new active ingredients: Research is aimed at finding new plant extracts, vitamins, minerals and other substances that can have a beneficial effect on the prostate.

  • Study of action mechanisms: Additional studies are needed for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of action of known active ingredients, such as Saw Palmetto and Lycopines.

  • Conducting major clinical research: Large, well -planned clinical studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements for the health of the prostate.

  • Development of personalized approaches: Studies are aimed at developing personalized approaches to the use of dietary supplements for prostate health, taking into account the individual characteristics of patients, such as age, genetics and related diseases.

  • Using new technologies: The use of new technologies, such as genomics and proteomics, can help identify biomarkers that allow you to predict the effectiveness of dietary supplements for the health of the prostate.

  • Study of the influence of dietary supplement on prostate cancer prevention: Studies are being conducted that evaluate the potential of dietary supplements in the prevention of prostate cancer in men with a high risk of disease.

XIII. Dietary recommendations for prostate health

Proper nutrition plays an important role in maintaining the health of the prostate. Here are some dietary recommendations:

  • Eat more vegetables and fruits: Vegetables and fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other beneficial substances that can protect prostate cells from damage. Particularly useful tomatoes, broccoli, colored cabbage, spinach and berries.

  • Limit the consumption of red meat and processed products: Red meat and processed products can increase the risk of prostate cancer.

  • Use more fish: The fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties and can protect prostate cells from damage.

  • Use more whole grain products: All -grain products are rich in fiber, which can help maintain healthy weight and reduce the risk of prostate diseases.

  • Use enough zinc and selenium: Zinc and selenium are important minerals for the health of the prostate. Good sources of zinc include oysters, meat, poultry and legumes. Good sources of selenium include Brazilian nuts, tuna and eggs.

  • Limit sugar consumption: Excessive sugar consumption can lead to inflammation and increase the risk of prostate diseases.

  • Drink enough water: Drinking a sufficient amount of water helps to maintain the health of the urinary tract and can reduce the risk of prostatitis.

  • Use products rich in lycopine: Lycopine is a powerful antioxidant contained in tomatoes and other red fruits and vegetables. Lycopine can protect prostate cells from damage and reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

  • Use products rich in vitamin D: Low vitamin D levels are associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer. Good sources of vitamin D include oily fish, egg yolks and enriched products. You can also take vitamin D additives, especially in the winter months.

  • Use foods rich in isoflavones: Isoflavons are plant compounds contained in soy products. Isoflavones can have antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties and can reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

XIV. The importance of consulting a doctor before starting dietary supplements

Before you start taking any dietary supplements for the health of the prostate, it is extremely important to consult a doctor. The doctor can evaluate your health status, determine the causes of your symptoms and give recommendations on the most suitable treatment methods.

  • Symptoms Assessment: The doctor can conduct an examination and ask questions about your symptoms to determine whether they are caused by DHCH, prostatitis or other diseases.

  • Diagnosis: The doctor may prescribe tests, such as a blood test for the dog, an analysis of urine and prostate ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis and exclude other diseases.

  • Risk assessment: The doctor can evaluate your risk of prostate cancer based on your age, family history and other factors.

  • Treatment recommendations: The doctor can recommend the most suitable treatment methods, including drug treatment, surgical treatment, changes in lifestyle and dietary supplement.

  • Safety: The doctor can evaluate the safety of dietary supplements that you plan to take, and make sure that they do not interact with other drugs that you are taking.

  • Monitoring: The doctor can control your health status during the use of dietary supplements and adjust the dosage or replace dietary supplements, if necessary.

Self -medication can be dangerous and lead to a deterioration in the state of health. Only a doctor can correctly diagnose the disease and prescribe effective and safe treatment.

XV. Summary: the main points of a prostate health review review

  • The prostate is an important gland of the male reproductive system, subject to various diseases, including DGPZ, prostatitis and prostate cancer.

  • Dietary supplements for prostate health may contain various active ingredients, such as Saw Palmetto, beta-Sitosterin, Pygeum Africanum, Lycopine, Zinc and Selenium.

  • Evidence of the effectiveness of dietary supplements for the health of prostate is ambiguous, and additional studies are needed.

  • When choosing dietary supplements for the health of the prostate, you should take into account the composition, quality, safety and cost.

  • Dietary supplements for prostate health can cause side effects and interact with other drugs.

  • In addition to taking dietary supplements, there are other methods that can help maintain prostate health, such as healthy nutrition, regular physical exercises and maintaining healthy weight.

  • Before you start taking any dietary supplements for the health of the prostate, it is extremely important to consult a doctor.

  • A healthy lifestyle plays an important role in the prevention of prostate diseases.

  • Diagnosis of prostate diseases includes a finger rectal examination, a blood test for a dog, an analysis of urine and an ultrasound of the prostate.

  • Modern methods of treating prostate diseases depend on a specific disease and its severity and include drug treatment, surgical treatment and other methods.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *