Aging is a time of wisdom and celebration, yet many men spend this time concerned about their prostate health. Given that prostate cancer accounts for 15% of all new cancer cases, with the bulk of those diagnoses occurring between the ages of 65 and 74, it is understandable that this is a genuine concern for men in their later years.
Why is prostate health important?
Despite being more common during later years, the reality is that prostate and urinary issues can arise during any life stage. Addressing prostate and urinary health early on can help you live a longer, more fulfilling life free of unnecessary worry.
5 Ways to Improve Prostate Health Naturally
Good prostate and urinary health are the result of making healthy choices over time. Consider each of the following lifestyle factors to see where you stand and make changes to your routine that will help you reach your goal of better prostate health.
Eat a balanced diet
Eat balanced meals that include protein, fat, and carbohydrates, including fiber, from whole food sources and try to eat on a regular schedule. Limit sugar intake as much as possible and select organic produce and organic grass-fed meats and dairy products to minimize your exposure to chemicals that can increase your risk of developing prostate cancer.
Rest to minimize stress
It is no surprise that getting enough sleep can help the body heal and restore balance to hormones. Chronic stress impairs hormone signaling and disrupts glucose-insulin homeostasis which can negatively impact prostate health. Finding ways to manage stress can help you maximize your health and longevity.
Practice oral hygiene
Research suggests there may be a correlation between oral health and prostate cancer. Toxic metabolites from the overgrowth of bad bacteria in the mouth can migrate to other organ systems and initiate inflammatory signaling that can alter gene expression. Visit your dentist for a checkup and follow their guidance on how to improve your oral health.
Engage in physical activity
Exercise is one of the biggest preventative measures you can take to safeguard the health of your whole body, including prostate health. There is no shortage of benefits when it comes to exercise, as it can help maintain healthy testosterone and cortisol levels, improve muscle tone, and strengthen the cardiovascular system.
Supplement as needed
There are certain supplements that have demonstrated to improve the overall health of both urinary and prostate health in clinical studies. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which vitamins to take. Here are some nutrients to lookout for when shopping for prostate health supplements.
What Nutrients Support Prostate Health?
Certain nutritional ingredients have been shown to be beneficial for prostate and urinary health. Refer to the National Cancer Institute for a more comprehensive list to get more info.
- Lycopene is a fat-soluble carotenoid that helps lower inflammation, repair DNA damage, and has demonstrated strong chemoprotective properties.
- Zinc is a trace mineral that is concentrated in the male reproductive organs and has been shown to support healthy testosterone levels.
- Selenium is a trace mineral important for the antioxidant cycle that has shown to be chemoprotective.
- Saw Palmetto is a plant extract that targets a specific enzyme to help maintain healthy testosterone levels by reducing the conversion to dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
- Beta Sitosterol is a plant extract that has shown to be cardio and chemoprotective, it also inhibits aromatase enzyme activity, which helps prevent estrogen dominance.
Top 3 Prostate Health Supplements
We have narrowed down a list of the top 3 prostate health supplements to make it easier for you to filter through the multitude of options. See our top picks below:
Terry Naturally Healthy Prostate
Specially formulated for men, Terry Naturally Healthy Prostate is a powerful combination of phytonutrients and trace minerals that support optimal urinary flow, balanced testosterone levels, and healthy prostate function. This formula contains a blend of zinc, boron, saw palmetto, and beta-sitosterol in a highly bioavailable blend that is free of artificial ingredients, gluten, GMOs, soy, yeast, or dairy.
New Chapter Zyflamend Prostate
New Chapter Zyflamend Prostate is a comprehensive herbal blend to support prostate health. Each two-capsule serving size provides a unique blend of herbs and nutrients from sources including saw palmetto, pumpkin seed oil, nettle, green tea, selenium, and turmeric, which help lower inflammation and promote a healthy urinary tract. This supplement is certified gluten free, vegetarian, and free of artificial flavors and colors.
Theralogix Prostate 2.4
Backed by clinical research, Theralogix Prostate 2.4 offers premium quality nutrition to help you stay on top of age-related changes. This expertly-crafted formula contains six key ingredients including vitamin D3, selenium, vitamin E, and lycopene which have been shown to support a healthy prostate. This formula is certified NSF and manufactured to meet GMP standards, free of dyes, gluten, and vegetarian-friendly.
Conclusion
Growing older should be a celebration, not a worry. Understanding what nutrients are key for healthy prostate function is your first line of defense against declining urinary and prostate health. By ensuring you eat a balanced diet with whole foods, minimize exposure to toxins and pesticides, limit sugar intake, exercise, get enough rest, and supplement your diet as needed, you are taking proactive steps for effectively maintaining a healthy prostate throughout your life.
FAQ
Do prostate supplements really work?
Evidence has yet to deem dietary supplements effective for the prevention or treatment of conditions associated with prostate health. This article from Harvard Health provides greater detail on the established correlations between specific nutrients and prostate health outcomes.
What are the symptoms of prostate dysfunction?
Common symptoms of prostate dysfunction include pain or general discomfort, difficulty starting or stopping urinating, weak urine flow, or a sense of incomplete bladder emptying are a few things to watch out for. If you notice these symptoms visit your doctor and consider asking about adding supplements to your wellness routine.
What are the best foods for prostate health?
Eating a balanced diet that is full of antioxidants from whole food sources is ideal to fight inflammation that can otherwise lead to illness. These bioactive compounds are highest in unprocessed fruits and vegetables with no added sugar. The DASH diet or the Mediterranean diet have both been touted for their anti-inflammatory properties, which is key for maintaining overall health and longevity.