As men age, it’s natural for the prostate to enlarge. However, many may delay taking proactive steps toward prostate health due to fear or embarrassment. Incorporating supplements into your daily routine can be a simple and effective way to support prostate function.
These supplements often combine a variety of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs, and other nutrients specifically formulated to promote the healthy functioning of the prostate as part of the normal aging process. Staying proactive can help maintain long-term well-being and prevent potential issues. ‡
How Does the Prostate Work?
The prostate is a chestnut-sized gland that weighs around 30 grams (one ounce) and is an integral part of the male reproductive system. Its primary role involves producing a fluid that, together with sperm cells from the testicles and secretion from other glands, forms semen. The muscles of the prostate also ensure that semen is expelled outwards during ejaculation.
The prostate is located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum, also wrapping around the upper part of the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body). Due to this, prostate problems may also mean problems with urination and sexual function.
Common Prostate Problems
Most men will experience prostate issues at some point throughout their lives. The most common issues are prostatitis, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), and prostate cancer. By living a more healthy lifestyle and the addition of prostate-specific supplements, men can reduce the risk of developing these conditions.
Prostatitis
Prostatitis refers to inflammation or swelling of the prostate.
There are four types of prostatitis, including:
- Acute bacterial prostatitis, a bacterial infection of the prostate, usually with sudden and severe symptoms.
- Chronic bacterial prostatitis, a recurring or ongoing bacterial infection that usually includes less severe symptoms.
- Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), recurring or ongoing pelvic pain and urinary tract symptoms with no infections.
- Asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis, or signs of an inflamed prostate but no symptoms.
Signs and symptoms of prostatitis depend on the type but commonly include:
- Pain or burning during urination (dysuria)
- Difficulty urinating
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Urgent need to urinate
- Cloudy or bloody urine
- Abdomen, groin, or lower back pain
- Pain in the perineum, which is the area between the scrotum and rectum
- Pain or discomfort of the penis or testicles
- Painful ejaculation
- Fever, chills, muscle aches, and other flu-like symptoms
Treatment for prostatitis depends on the type and severity of the symptoms but can include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, alpha-blockers to relax the muscles around the prostate, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and, in more severe cases, surgery.
BPH
BPH, often referred to as an “enlarged prostate,” is the excessive growth of the prostate. As men age, the prostate can double or even triple in mass, especially after the age of 50. As the gland enlarges, it can pinch off the urethra and cause urination problems. This can cause a weak urinary stream, increased frequency and urgency of urination, incomplete bladder emptying, or retention.
BPH can have a significant impact on men’s quality of life, such as sleep disturbances, decreased sexual function, relationships and social life, emotional well-being, and productivity.
Prostate Cancer
Cancer is the abnormal growth of cells. Prostate cancer can stay within the prostate or spread to surrounding or distant tissue. Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer diagnosed in men, and often grows slowly and may not cause significant symptoms in its early stages.
Every man is at risk for prostate cancer. Out of every 100 American men, 13 will get prostate cancer during their life, and out of those men, two out of three will die from it. The most common risk factor is age. Men who are 50 and older run a higher risk of getting prostate cancer. You are also at an increased risk if you are African American, Hispanic, or Native American, you have a family history of the disease, or your diet is high in fat.
Substances with a Positive Effect on the Prostate Gland
Some substances have shown positive effects on the prostate gland’s structure and function as men age.
These include:
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is a fruit that is derived from the Serenoa repens plant. Studies show that it may help alleviate BPH symptoms, including frequent urination, urgency, incomplete bladder emptying, and weak urinary flow. It works by inhibiting an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase. The enzyme converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to prostate enlargement. Saw palmetto has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Pygeum Africanum
Pygeum africanum, also called African plum extract, is derived from the bark of the Pygeum africanum tree. It has been shown to reduce symptoms associated with BPH by improving urinary function and supporting sexual health and hormonal balance. It may help to protect prostate cells from oxidative damage.
Pumpkin Seed Powder
Pumpkin seed powder has been shown to alleviate symptoms associated with BPH. It can potentially reduce inflammation, decrease prostate size, support bladder health, maintain hormonal balance, and provide essential nutrients that promote men’s overall health.
Amino Acids
Several amino acids support prostate health, including these:
L-Glycine
L-glycine is an amino acid that is part of the synthesis of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative damage. Additionally, it may also help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the prostate gland.
L-Alanine
L-alanine is a non-essential amino acid and a component of collagen, a protein that provides structural support to the body’s tissues, including the integrity of the prostate tissue. L-alanine also supports immune function, which protects the prostate gland from infections and inflammation.
L-Glutamic
L-glutamic acid is a non-essential amino acid involved in various bodily metabolic processes. It may help support prostate health by regulating neurotransmitter levels and supporting immune function.
Other Ingredients
Other substances that provide support to men’s overall health and well-being include:
- Vitamin E and grape seed extract offer antioxidant defense against oxidative damage in cells across the body, including the prostate.
- Vitamin B6 plays an essential role in metabolizing nutrients.
- Zinc and vitamin A help maintain healthy skin and immune function.
Prostate Supplements FAQs
Learn more about essential ingredients for prostate health.
Supplements that Promote Overall Wellness
Supplements are widely regarded as an effective way to enhance overall health, especially when combined with smart lifestyle choices. Many contain essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and enzymes found in various foods and drinks. Incorporating dietary supplements into your routine offers a concentrated boost of these key nutrients for optimal benefits.
Prostate support supplements are valuable, but combining them with supplements that promote overall wellness, such as TB4-Frag MAX, can be even more effective. By focusing on nutrients that strengthen and balance your immune system, you can reduce inflammation and support prostate health. Common ingredients in prostate health supplements include zinc, vitamins D, C, and E, calcium, saw palmetto, selenium, pumpkin seed oil, nettle root, soy, beta-sitosterol, modified citrus pectin, lycopene, and green tea.
‡These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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