4 Natural Supplements to Improve Prostate Health

The prostate gland is located below the bladder and in front of the rectum in men. As men age, the prostate gland may become enlarged or infected, leading to conditions such as prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or even prostate cancer. Although there are medications available to treat these conditions, many people would like to explore natural supplements as an alternative or complementary option. Here are four natural supplements that have been shown to improve prostate health.

Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto is an extract derived from the berries of the saw palmetto tree. It is commonly used to treat BPH because it can inhibit the production of the hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) that contributes to prostate growth. A meta-analysis of 69 randomized controlled trials concluded that saw palmetto is effective in reducing the symptoms of BPH, such as urinary frequency and hesitancy, nocturia, and weak urinary stream. Saw palmetto is available in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, or liquid extracts.

Pumpkin Seed Oil

Pumpkin seed oil is a rich source of essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytosterols that possess anti-inflammatory and antiandrogenic properties. This means that it can reduce inflammation in the prostate gland and inhibit the activity of the enzymes that convert testosterone to DHT. A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that men who took 320 mg of pumpkin seed oil per day for 12 weeks experienced a significant improvement in urinary function and quality of life. Pumpkin seed oil is available in softgel capsules or liquid extracts.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. It is also important for prostate health because it is concentrated in the prostate tissue and helps regulate the production of prostatic fluid. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 17 studies concluded that zinc supplementation can significantly reduce the incidence of prostate cancer and slow down the progression of BPH. Zinc is available in various forms, such as zinc gluconate, zinc citrate, or zinc picolinate.

Pygeum Africanum

Pygeum africanum is an extract derived from the bark of the African plum tree. It has been traditionally used to treat urinary problems and prostate enlargement in Africa. The active compounds in pygeum africanum, such as phytosterols, pentacyclic triterpenes, and ferulic esters, possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiproliferative properties that can benefit prostate health. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 18 randomized controlled trials concluded that pygeum africanum is effective in reducing the symptoms of BPH and improving urinary flow. Pygeum africanum is available in capsules, tablets, or liquid extracts.

Conclusion

Natural supplements can be a safe and effective way to improve prostate health. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements, especially if you are already taking medications or have underlying medical conditions. It is also important to choose high-quality supplements from reputable brands and follow the recommended doses. By incorporating these four natural supplements into your daily routine, you may experience an improvement in urinary function, prostate-related symptoms, and overall quality of life.