Herbs:
Studies have shown that saw palmetto lowers levels of DHT, estrogen,, and progesterone. This decreases the chance of developing BPH. Saw Palmetto contains fatty acids, esters, and sterols that keep the prostate healthy and reduce inflammation.
One sterol, beta-sitosterol, is a main ingredient in pygeum. This herb is a native of Africa. Pygeum has clinically proven even more effective than saw palmetto in alleviating BPH. Taken together these two herbs can even reduce prostatitis and reverse impotence.
Stinging Nettle has also been recommended in the treatment of prostate problems.
A new method for fighting prostate cancer is called PC-SPES (PC for prostate cancer, spes is Latin for hope). PC-Spes is a combination of Saw Palmetto and other herbs. Studies indicate that you can expect up to a 50% decrease in your PSA readings.
Foods:
Lycopene, a chemical found in high levels in watermelon and tomatoes, can reduce the risk of prostate cancer by more than 40 percent. It is important to have ten servings a week of tomatoes, raw or sauced, in order to have a strong anti-cancer effect.
Pumpkin seeds, which contain essential fatty acids, strongly nurture the prostate.
Minerals:
Zinc is important for prostate function and has been shown to reduce prostate size.
Vitamins:
Vitamin C in high doses may decrease toxicity and reduce the possibility of cancer.
Vitamin E in its Gamma form may be very effective in helping men avoid prostate cancer. In a recent study published in the December 20, 2000 issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, men who had the highest blood serum levels of the gamma form of vitamin E were five times less likely to develop prostate cancer.
Most of us take the alpha form of vitamin E. The next time you purchase vitamin E make sure it’s a mixed formula that contains the gamma version or buy the gamma tocopherol separately.
There are many good prostate formulas on the market that contain saw palmetto, pygeum, zinc and pumpkin seed extract. Be sure to pick one up at the health food store right away!!!
Exercise
Keeping healthy and exercising has been found to lower the risk of prostate problems. However, research indicates that bike riding may cause enlargement of the prostate. If you are going to ride a bike for long periods of time, purchase a large, oversized cushioned seat.
Hydrotherapy:
A hot sitz bath may be beneficial for prostate inflammation, according to Agatha Thrash, M.D., a medical pathologist and co-founder and co-director of Uchee Pines Institute, a natural healing center in Seale, Alabama. Fill a tub with enough comfortably hot water to cover the navel, then sit down and soak for 20 to 45 minutes. Follow with a cold bath or shower. Dr. Thrash suggests using this treatment once a day for 30 days or until symptoms subside.
