In men, having prostate-related issues after a certain age is not uncommon.
Prostate cancer is a leading cause of mortality all over the globe. As reported by Singapore Cancer Registry for the years 2010- 2014, prostate cancer was the 3rd most common cancer in the country.
An enlarged or unhealthy prostate can cause pain while urinating, shrink the urine stream as well as diminish your sexual performance. But the good news is that treatments for prostate-related issues are available.
That said, prostate issues are best managed when medication is supplemented with dietary supplements and recommended lifestyle changes.
The article helps you learn about the benefits of prostate supplements.
Why is prostate health important?
The prostate is a small walnut-sized gland in men located below the urinary bladder. It also surrounds the top portion of the urethra. Its key function is to produce semen, which helps in the transportation and nourishment of sperm cells.
However, the prostate may at times face certain health conditions including:
- Prostate cancer: Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. While it is usually slow-growing cancer with chances of being detected early, some forms can be aggressive too.
- Chronic prostatitis: This is a state when the prostate gland gets inflamed. Viral and bacterial infection is regarded as the main cause of the condition. The affected person may face pain or a burning sensation while urinating.
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia: This is a condition that results in prostate enlargement in men as they get older. This results in uncomfortable urinary tract problems. BPH can also lead to improper kidney functioning.
The preliminary stage of any prostate condition is often unaccompanied by symptoms. But, as the condition worsens, various signs may start to show including:
- Need for frequent urination
- Aching ejaculation
- Erectile dysfunction
- Excessive urination in the nighttime
- Pain in the pelvic area and lower back
- Urinary continence
Related article: “Erectile dysfunction after prostate surgery: How long does it last?”
What supplements are good for the prostate gland?
The most common prostate health supplements include:
- Pygeum
- Ryegrass
- Saw palmetto
- Beta-sitosterol
Pygeum
An extract from the bark of a plum tree indigenous to Africa called Prunus Africana, it’s commonly used to treat an enlarged prostate condition in men. This supplement soothes the problem of improper urine flow and nighttime urination.
Ryegrass
Scientific studies have shown that Ryegrass extract (cernilton) helps to reduce the severe pain caused by an enlarged prostate.
The pollen present in ryegrass diminishes the inflammation by interfering with certain chemicals. This improves regularity in the urinary flow. Medical professionals often treat ryegrass due to its positive impacts in treating symptoms like:
- Burning pain during urination
- Constant urge to urinate
- Weak urinary stream
- Sexual dysfunction
- Sense of incomplete bladder emptying
Saw palmetto
Research shows that palmetto can improve prostate health and minimize the chances of BPH and prostate cancer. It works by lowering the pressure on the tubes that carry urine in males.
This supplement also lessens the rate at which DHT binds with androgen, the major cause of hair loss in men.
It helps to improve symptoms such as:
- Male pattern baldness
- Benign prostatic hypertrophy
- Sexual dysfunction
- Constantly feeling the need to urinate
Beta-sitosterol
Beta-sitosterol helps in emptying the bladder quickly and provides a better urinal flow. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in men are strongly related to acute prostatitis. A good urine flow helps prevent UTIs and therefore contributes to prostate health.
Although this supplement doesn’t have a direct effect on the prostate, it’s still a very useful supplement for urinary tract problems.
Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds contain nutrients that can improve prostate health and reduce inflammation and swelling within the prostate thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties
Various herbs
Following herbs are known to contribute to prostate health:
- Red clover
- Stinging nettle
- Flax seeds
- Green tea
- Milk thistle
- Dried cranberry
- Selenium
- Quercetin
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a very necessary component for cellular growth and the immune system. Some studies have indicated that a deficiency of this vitamin may increase the risk of prostate cancer in men.
Zinc
Zinc is proven to impede cancer cell growth by disrupting a nuclear factor called kB.
Research indicates that there may be a correlation between low zinc levels and the risk of prostate cancer in men. Ensuring that your diet has adequate levels of this essential mineral is recommended.
Conclusion
Prostate supplements have been considered to significantly help reduce the symptoms related to enlarged prostate and other related issues. However, it may be noted that supplements are not a treatment option but an additional measure to maintain your prostate health.
Wondering how to choose the right prostate supplements in Singapore?
Start by consulting a medical professional to understand the treatment options that you need to start along with the supplements.
While buying the supplement, make sure that you purchase it from a reputable company that has all the necessary certifications.
Browse through our supplement options, including prostate supplements, or get a sexual health medical evaluation to learn more about prostate health.
