What is it?
The prostate gland is a walnut-shaped gland that produces semen in the male reproductive system. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) refers to the condition when the prostate gland gets enlarged in size. The urethra (the tube through which the urine is excreted from the bladder) passes between the prostate gland. That being said, when the gland enlarges, it obstructs the flow of urine from the bladder. When that happens, the flow of urine may weaken, some urine may get left behind in the bladder. Frequent urge to urinate may be one of the symptoms that people get because of BPH (Harvey B. Simon, n.d.).
This condition mostly occurs in older men. However, this does not mean that the person has prostate cancer or is likely to develop it in the future.
Complications of BPH
Some complications of BPH include (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), n.d.):
• Urinary retention
• Urine incontinence
• Urinary tract infections
• Bladder damage
• Kidney damage
• Bladder stones
Foods to Avoid
Foods that you should avoid if you have BPH include red meat, dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, and salty foods, as they aggravate the urinary tract symptoms of BPH. Consumption of these foods, such as consuming too much red meat or dairy products may increase your risk of developing BPH (Nicole Galan, 2018).
Foods to Eat
Foods that help in managing BPH include nuts, fruits such as berries and citrus fruits, tomatoes, vegetables such as broccoli, onions, garlic, and healthy fats such as those found in salmon. These foods help in managing the symptoms of an enlarged prostate gland and help reduce the damage to affected organs (Nicole Galan, 2018).
About Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto appears to slow down the production of an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the prostate gland. Some people believe that taking saw palmetto will reduce their BPH symptoms by blocking this DHT production. Only a few small studies however have shown some benefits. That being said, it appears that most people can take it with minimal issues. Studies have shown a daily intake of 320 milligrams of saw palmetto split into two doses may have some befefit. Some men taking saw palmetto have also reported erection problems, testicular pain, and breast tenderness. People who have diseases or health conditions should not use saw palmetto without talking to a doctor first.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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