Natural dietary supplements for prostate health

Natural dietary supplements for prostate health: Complex review

I. Anatomy and prostate physiology: Health Fundamentals

Before considering the role of natural dietary supplements in maintaining the health of the prostate, it is important to understand its anatomy, physiology and common problems.

A. Anatomical structure:

1. Location: a prostate is a small gland the size of a walnut, located under the bladder and surrounding the urethra (a pipe along which urine is removed from the body).
2. Build: it consists of several shares surrounded by a fibrous capsule. The main tissue of the gland consists of glandular cells that produce a secret, as well as smooth muscle and fibrous elements. In the prostate, peripheral, transition, central and anterior fibromascular zones are distinguished. Most cases of prostate cancer occur in the peripheral zone.
3. Innervation and blood supply: the prostate receives nerve impulses from the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system, which regulates its contractile function. Blood supply is carried out through the lower ureteral and internal sex arteries.

B. Physiological functions:

1. Secret development: The main function of the prostate is the development of a secret, which is about 20-30% of the volume of sperm. This secret contains various substances, including:
   • Prostatespeecial antigen (PSA): an enzyme that dilutes sperm.
   • Citric acid: plays a role in sperm metabolism.
   • Phosphatase: has antibacterial properties.
   • Zinc: is important for stability of sperm DNA and antioxidant protection.
2. Participation in ejaculation: the smooth muscles of the prostate are reduced during ejaculation, contributing to the release of sperm. Reducing the neck of the bladder prevents retrograde ejaculation (sperm entering the bladder).
3. Hormonal role: prostate is an organ-target for dihydrotestosterone (DGT), powerful androgen formed from testosterone. DGT plays an important role in the development and functioning of the prostate, but can also contribute to its increase with age.

C. common diseases of the prostate:

1. Benign prostate hyperplasia (DGPZ): this is the most common prostate disease, especially in men over 50 years old. DGPZ is characterized by an increase in the size of the prostate, which can lead to compression of the urethra and impaired urination.
   • Symptoms of DGPZH: frequent urination (especially at night), urgent urination, difficulty on urination, a weak stream of urine, a feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder, intermittent urination, dribbling after urination.
   • Risk Factors of DGPG: age, family history, obesity, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases.
2. Prostatitis: This is inflammation of the prostate gland. Prostatitis can be acute (caused by bacterial infection) or chronic (non -bacterial or bacterial).
   • Symptoms of prostatitis: pain in the pelvic, crotch, lower back, testicles, painful urination, frequent urination, urgent urination, painful ejaculation, sexual dysfunction. Acute prostatitis can be accompanied by fever, chills and general weakness.
   • Types of prostatitis:
     • Acute bacterial prostatitis: caused by a bacterial infection (for example, E. coli).
     • Chronic bacterial prostatitis: recurrent bacterial infection.
     • Chronic abacterial prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain (HAP/CTB): the most common type of prostatitis, the cause of which is unknown.
     • Unsymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis: inflammation of the prostate without any symptoms.
3. Prostate cancer: it is a malignant tumor developing from prostate cells. Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men.
   • Symptoms of prostate cancer: in the early stages of prostate cancer, it often occurs asymptomatic. In the later stages, symptoms similar to DHCH (frequent urination, difficulty urination, weak urine stream), as well as blood in urine or sperm, bone pain, weight loss, may appear.
   • Prostate cancer risk factors: age, family history, race (African Americans have a higher risk), a high fat diet, and obesity.

II. Natural dietary supplements for prostate health: review and action mechanisms

There are many natural dietary supplements, which are believed to be useful for prostate health. It is important to note that the effectiveness of some of these dietary supplements is confirmed by scientific research, while others have limited evidence or are based on traditional use. Before taking any dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor.

A. Saw Palmetto (Serenoa Repens):

1. The mechanism of action: Saw Palmetto is one of the most studied and widely used plant agents for the treatment of DGPH. It is believed that it acts in several ways:
   • Inhibition of 5-alpha reductase: Saw Palmetto can block the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, which turns testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DGT). A decrease in the level of DGT can reduce the size of the prostate and improve the symptoms of DHCH.
   • Blocking alpha-adrenergic receptors: Saw Palmetto can block alpha-adrenergic receptors in the prostate and bladder, which can relax smooth muscles and improve the stream of urine.
   • Anti -inflammatory action: Saw Palmetto has anti -inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the prostate.
2. Clinical studies: Some clinical studies have shown that Saw Palmetto can reduce the symptoms of DHCH, such as frequent urination, urgent calls to urination, difficulty urination and a weak urine stream. However, the research results are ambiguous, and some studies have not shown a significant improvement compared to placebo.
3. Side effects: Saw Palmetto is usually well tolerated, but can cause light side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation and dizziness. In rare cases, sexual dysfunction was reported.
4. Dosage: It is usually recommended to take 320 mg of the Saw Palmetto extract per day.

B. Pygeum African:

1. The mechanism of action: Pygeum Africanum is an extract of African plum cortex, which is traditionally used to treat problems with prostate. It is believed that it acts in the following ways:
   • Anti -inflammatory effect: Pygeum Africanum has anti -inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the prostate.
   • Inhibition of fibroblast growth: Pygeum Africanum can inhibit the growth of fibroblasts in the prostate, which can help reduce its size.
   • Improving the function of the bladder: Pygeum Africanum can improve the elasticity and contractility of the bladder.
2. Clinical studies: Clinical studies have shown that Pygeum Africanum can reduce the symptoms of DHCH, such as frequent urination, emergency calls to urination and night urination. It can also improve the flow of urine.
3. Side effects: Pygeum Africanum is usually well tolerated, but can cause light side effects, such as nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea.
4. Dosage: It is usually recommended to take 50-100 mg of Pygeum Africanum extract twice a day.

C. Pumpkin oil (Cucurbita Pepo):

1. The mechanism of action: pumpkin oil contains phytosterols, antioxidants and other beneficial substances that can have a beneficial effect on prostate health.
   • Inhibition of 5-alpha reductase: Phytosterols in pumpkin oil can be blocked by the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, reducing the level of DGT.
   • Anti -inflammatory effect: pumpkin oil has anti -inflammatory properties.
   • Antioxidant effect: antioxidants in pumpkin oil can protect prostate cells from damage by free radicals.
2. Clinical studies: Some clinical studies have shown that pumpkin oil can reduce the symptoms of DGPZ and improve the quality of life of men with this disease. Often pumpkin oil is used in combination with Saw Palmetto to enhance the effect.
3. Side effects: pumpkin oil is usually well tolerated, but can cause light side effects, such as stomach and diarrhea.
4. Dosage: It is usually recommended to take 1-2 tablespoons of pumpkin oil per day or take capsules with pumpkin oil in accordance with the instructions on the package.

D. Diolet nettle (Urtica Dioica):

1. The mechanism of action: dioecious nettle extract is often used in combination with Saw Palmetto for the treatment of DHCS. It is believed that it acts in the following ways:
   • Inhibition of aromatase: nettle can block the enzyme aromatase, which turns testosterone into estrogen. A decrease in estrogen levels can be good for the health of the prostate.
   • Binding by globulin connecting sex hormones (GSPG): nettle can be associated with GSPG, releasing more free testosterone into the bloodstream. This can help improve prostate function and general health.
   • Anti -inflammatory effect: nettle has anti -inflammatory properties.
2. Clinical studies: Some clinical studies have shown that dioecious nettle can reduce the symptoms of DGPZ, especially in combination with Saw Palmetto.
3. Side effects: dioecious nettle is usually well tolerated, but can cause light side effects, such as stomach disorder and allergic reactions.
4. Dosage: It is usually recommended to take 120-240 mg of the anti-dioecious nettle root extract per day.

E. Likopin:

1. The mechanism of action: Lycopine is a carotenoid pigment contained in tomatoes and other red fruits and vegetables. It is a powerful antioxidant.
   • Antioxidant effect: Lycopine protects prostate cells from damage by free radicals, which can contribute to the development of prostate cancer.
   • Inhibition of cancer cell growth: some studies have shown that lycopine can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells.
2. Clinical studies: Studies have shown that lycopine consumption is associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.
3. Side effects: lycopines are usually well tolerated, but can cause light side effects, such as stomach disorder and skin color change (lycopenemia).
4. Dosage: It is recommended to consume 10-30 mg of lycopine per day. This can be done by eating products rich in lycopin, such as tomatoes, tomato sauce, watermelon and pink grapefruit, or taking additives with lycopine.

F. Zinc:

1. The mechanism of action: zinc is an important trace element that plays an important role in the health of the prostate. The prostate contains high concentrations of zinc, and its deficiency may be associated with problems with the prostate.
   • Antioxidant effect: zinc is an antioxidant and can protect the prostate cells from damage by free radicals.
   • Inhibition of cancer cell growth: some studies have shown that zinc can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells.
   • Regulation of the DGT level: zinc can inhibit an enzyme 5-alpha reductase, reducing the level of DGT.
2. Clinical studies: Studies have shown that men with prostate cancer often have a lower zinc level in the prostate. Additional studies are necessary to determine whether the addition of zinc can prevent or treat prostate cancer.
3. Side effects: when taking high doses, zinc can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and copper deficiency.
4. Dosage: It is recommended to consume 11 mg zinc per day for men. Zinc can be obtained from foods such as meat, seafood, nuts and seeds, or take supplements with zinc.

G. Selenium:

1. The mechanism of action: Selenium is another important trace element that has antioxidant properties and can play a role in the prevention of prostate cancer.
   • Antioxidant effect: selenium is an antioxidant and can protect the prostate cells from damage by free radicals.
   • Strengthening the immune function: Selenium plays an important role in the immune function, which can help fight cancer cells.
   • Inhibition of cancer cell growth: some studies have shown that selenium can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells.
2. Clinical studies: Some studies have shown that men with a higher level of selenium in the blood have a lower risk of prostate cancer. However, other studies did not show significant connection.
3. Side effects: when taking high doses, selenium can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, hair loss and nerves damage.
4. Dosage: It is recommended to consume 55 mcg selenium per day. Selenium can be obtained from products such as Brazilian nuts, tuna, eggs and chicken, or to take additives with selenium.

H. Pranica Granatum):

1. The mechanism of action: Grenade contains antioxidants, such as punikalagin, which can have anti -inflammatory and anti -cancer effects.
   • Antioxidant effect: antioxidants in a grenade protect prostate cells from damage by free radicals.
   • Inhibition of cancer cell growth: some studies have shown that grenade extract can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells and slow down cancer progression.
   • Anti -inflammatory action: Grenade has anti -inflammatory properties.
2. Clinical studies: Some clinical studies have shown that grenade juice or grenade extract can slow down an increase in the level of PSA in men with prostate cancer after treatment.
3. Side effects: grenades are usually well tolerated, but can cause light side effects, such as stomach disorder. He can also interact with some drugs such as warfarin.
4. Dosage: It is usually recommended to drink 1 cup of pomegranate juice per day or take a grenade extract in accordance with the instructions on the packaging.

I. Green tea (Camellia sinensis):

1. The mechanism of action: Green tea contains polyphenols, especially epallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
   • Antioxidant effect: polyphenols in green tea protect the prostate cells from damage by free radicals.
   • Inhibition of cancer cell growth: some studies have shown that EGCG can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells and cause apoptosis (programmed cell death).
   • Anti -inflammatory effect: green tea has anti -inflammatory properties.
2. Clinical studies: Some studies have shown that the use of green tea is associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer.
3. Side effects: green tea is usually well tolerated, but can cause side effects, such as insomnia, nervousness and disorder of the stomach due to caffeine content.
4. Dosage: It is recommended to drink 2-3 cups of green tea per day or take green tea extract in accordance with the instructions on the package.

J. Kurmer (Curcuma longga):

1. The mechanism of action: turmeric contains turmeric, which is a powerful antioxidant and has anti -inflammatory and anti -cancer properties.
   • Antioxidant effect: Kurkumin protects the prostate cells from damage by free radicals.
   • Inhibition of cancer cell growth: some studies have shown that turmeric can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells and cause apoptosis.
   • Anti -inflammatory effect: Kurkumin has anti -inflammatory properties.
2. Clinical studies: Studies have shown that curcumin can slow down the growth of prostate cancer cells in laboratory conditions. Additional clinical studies are needed to confirm these results.
3. Side effects: turmeric is usually well tolerated, but can cause light side effects, such as stomach disorder. Kurkumin is poorly absorbed into the blood, so it is often taken with piperin (black pepper extract), which improves its bioavailability.
4. Dosage: It is usually recommended to take 500-2000 mg of curcumin per day.

III. Other important prostate health factors

In addition to taking natural dietary supplements, maintaining a healthy lifestyle plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of prostate diseases.

A. Diet:

1. Reducing the consumption of red meat and dairy products: high consumption of red meat and dairy products is associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer.
2. An increase in fruits and vegetable consumptions: fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants and other beneficial substances that can protect prostate cells from damage. Tomatoes, watermelon, broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage are especially useful.
3. The consumption of healthy fats: the use of healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish, linen seed and walnuts, can be useful for the health of the prostate.
4. Limiting sugar and processed products: sugar and processed products can contribute to inflammation in the body, which can adversely affect the health of the prostate.

B. Physical activity:

1. Regular physical exercises: regular physical exercises can help improve the general health and reduce the risk of prostate diseases. It is recommended to engage in moderate physical activity of at least 150 minutes a week or intensive physical activity of at least 75 minutes a week.
2. Maintaining healthy weight: obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing prostate diseases.

C. Regular medical examinations:

1. Prostate cancer screening: men over 50 years old (or over 40 years old, if they have risk factors, such as a family history of prostate cancer or African American origin) should be regularly screening for prostate cancer. Screening usually includes a blood test for a dog and a finger rectal examination.
2. Consultation with a doctor: When any symptoms associated with a prostate appear, you must consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

D. Stress management:

1. Chronic stress can adversely affect the health of the prostate. It is important to learn how to manage stress using methods such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises and conducting time in nature.

E. Alcohol restriction and smoking refusal:

1. Alcohol abuse and smoking can increase the risk of prostate diseases.

IV. Choosing and using natural dietary supplements: recommendations

A. Consultation with a doctor:

Before you start taking any natural dietary supplements for the health of the prostate, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor can evaluate your health status, determine which dietary supplements can be useful to you, and exclude possible interactions with the drugs that you take.

B. The choice of quality products:

When choosing natural dietary supplements, it is important to choose products from reliable manufacturers who adhere to quality standards and are tested for cleanliness and efficiency.

C. Dosage:

Take dietary supplements in accordance with the instructions on the packaging or recommendations of the doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dosage.

D. Evaluation of effectiveness:

Evaluate the effectiveness of dietary supplements in a few weeks or months of admission. If you do not see an improvement in symptoms, consult a doctor.

E. Combination of dietary supplements:

Some dietary supplements can be more effective in combination with each other. For example, Saw Palmetto is often used in combination with nettles.

F. Side effects:

Pay attention to possible side effects when taking dietary supplements. If you experience any side effects, stop taking a dietary supplement and consult a doctor.

G. Long -term use:

Before the long -term use of natural dietary supplements, consult a doctor.

V. Conclusion (will be deleted)

Natural dietary supplements can be a useful addition to a comprehensive approach to maintaining the health of the prostate. However, it is important to remember that they are not a replacement for traditional medical treatment. A healthy lifestyle, regular medical examinations and consultations with a doctor are key factors for the prevention and treatment of prostate diseases.