Which Supplement Is Best For Enlarged Prostate?
Enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition that affects men as they age. It occurs when the prostate gland becomes larger and can cause urinary problems such as difficulty in starting or stopping the flow of urine, frequent urination, and urgency to urinate. While medications and lifestyle changes can help manage these symptoms, many people are turning to supplements for relief. In this article, we will explore which supplement is best for enlarged prostate.
What Are The Symptoms Of Enlarged Prostate?
Before we dive into the best supplement for enlarged prostate, it’s essential to understand the symptoms:
- Difficulty starting or stopping urine flow
- Frequent need to urinate, especially at night
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Urgent need to urinate
- A feeling that your bladder is not empty after urinating
- Dribbling of urine
- Needing to push or strain while urinating
- Inability to urinate
What Causes Enlarged Prostate?
The exact cause of an enlarged prostate isn’t known, but age and hormonal changes seem to play a significant role. As men age, their testosterone levels decrease while dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels remain constant or increase slightly. This imbalance can lead to the growth of prostate cells, ultimately causing the prostate to enlarge.
Best Supplement For Enlarged Prostate: Saw Palmetto Berry Extract
Saw palmetto berry extract is one of the most popular supplements used for treating enlarged prostate symptoms. It contains fatty acids and plant sterols that help block dihydrotestosterone (DHT) from binding to receptors in the prostate cells, preventing further growth. Research has shown saw palmetto berry extract to be effective in reducing BPH symptoms like urinary frequency, urgency, and night-time urination.
Benefits Of Saw Palmetto Berry Extract:
- Reduces inflammation in the prostate gland
- Improves urine flow
- Decreases urinary frequency and urgency
- Relieves pain associated with BPH
- Regulates hormone levels, specifically testosterone and DHT
- Slows down the growth of prostate cells
- May prevent further enlargement of the prostate gland
- Has no significant side effects when taken at recommended doses
How To Take Saw Palmetto Berry Extract?
Saw palmetto berry extract is typically available in capsule form, and the recommended dose is usually 160-320mg daily. It’s essential to follow the instructions on the product label or consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.
Other Supplements For Enlarged Prostate:
While saw palmetto berry extract is considered the best supplement for enlarged prostate, there are other options available as well:
- Pygeum Africanum – This extract from the bark of an African cherry tree has anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce urinary symptoms associated with BPH.
- Stinging Nettle Root Extract – Rich in antioxidants, stinging nettle root can help reduce prostate size by inhibiting DHT production.
- Beta-Sitosterol – A natural plant compound that blocks DHT and reduces inflammation in the prostate gland.
- Zinc – Essential for maintaining healthy prostate function and cell growth, zinc supplements may help alleviate urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate.
Conclusion:
Enlarged prostate is a common condition among men as they age, but it doesn’t have to be debilitating. By incorporating saw palmetto berry extract into your daily routine and making lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress, you can effectively manage the symptoms of BPH. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it’s safe for you and to discuss potential drug interactions.