Male Prostate Health

 
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The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system, the approximate size of a walnut, which surrounds the part of the urethra (the tube that empties the bladder) that sits just below the bladder.

It is perfectly normal for the prostate to grow throughout adult life. As it grows it may push against the bladder or urethra causing mild or increased difficulties around urinating. For some this doesn’t bring about any serious problems, but for others, an enlarged prostate can lead to issues that effect quality of life.

An enlarged prostate affects:

  • 20% of men in their 40’s

  • 50% of men in their 50’s

  • 80-90% of men in their 70s and 80s

The most frequent symptoms are lower urinary tract symptoms; urinary frequency, urgency, nocturia (night urination), a weak/intermittent urinary stream. Diet appears to play a critical role in the health of the prostate and is associated with a reduced risk for benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatitis, (two common prostate health problems), and reduction of symptoms.

Nutritional therapy and lifestyle recommendations support prostate health and is a popular and effective choice for prevention and on diagnosis.

Areas in life that can affect this important gland, negatively or positively are:

Sleep, physical activity, food intake and meal timings, phytonutrient intake (foods that impact the body in specific ways; antioxidant, detoxification), stress and how its managed, blood sugar regulation, insulin sensitivity, toxic exposure, an individuals detoxification efficiency, substance use; alcohol, smoking, drugs.

Nutrients, foods and beverages that positively support the prostate gland:

  • Lycopene - found in tomatoes (especially when cooked)

  • Zinc - found in pumpkin seeds, grass-fed beef, chickpeas, lentils, avocado, spinach, cashew nuts, whole grains

  • Green tea - good quality. Avoid pouring boiling water over leaves as this scorches them

  • Lignans - found in flax seeds - these need to be ground

  • Wild caught oily fish - salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, herring, trout

  • Ensure adequate vitamin D levels

Working with a nutritional therapist can support the prostate and male health generally and recommend good quality supplemental support if and when specific circumstances require this.

TJ Nutrition and Health