January 8, 2024
Benign prostate hyperplasia, often known as BPH, is a common condition most often affecting men over the age of 50 that enlarges the prostate, leading to a range of uncomfortable symptoms.
There are several effective treatment options that can help to reduce the symptoms of BPH and improve quality of life. These include both natural remedies and medical interventions.
Are you searching for natural remedies to help with benign prostate hyperplasia? Here’s what you need to know.
What is Benign Prostate Hyperplasia?
Benign prostate hyperplasia occurs when the prostate gland, part of the male reproductive system, becomes enlarged, often as a result of aging.
The prostate gland is located close to the urethra, the tube that removes urine from the bladder. When the prostate is enlarged, it can place pressure on the urethra, causing difficulty with urination.
While prostate hyperplasia is not dangerous, it can be uncomfortable, and symptoms are often disruptive to daily life.
Additionally, untreated prostate enlargement can lead to health complications affecting the kidneys, bladder, and urethra.
Benign prostate enlargement can lead to a variety of symptoms, experienced to varying degrees of severity. Often, symptoms may worsen over time. Common symptoms include:
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Increased urinary frequency at night
- Difficulty initiating urination
- Weak urine stream or a urine stream that stops and starts
- Dribbling at the end of urination
- Incomplete bladder emptying
In some cases, benign prostate hyperplasia can also lead to the inability to urinate or may cause blood in urine or a urinary tract infection.
Natural Treatments for BPH
For many men, natural remedies can be used to lower the risk of prostate hyperplasia or reduce the severity of symptoms. Some natural remedies may act as preventative, while others may support treatment.
Herbal Remedies
In some cases, herbal remedies can complement lifestyle changes to support improved prostate health. Under medical guidance, herbal remedies can be a valuable addition to your treatment plan. These are some of the best herbs to shrink your prostate:
Saw Palmetto
Derived from a palm tree, saw palmetto has been used for centuries to address urinary health concerns. Several small studies by the US National Institutes of Health have shown that saw palmetto is effective for relieving prostate enlargement symptoms. However, larger studies could not distinguish between herbal remedies and placebo results. When using saw palmetto, be aware of minor side effects, such as headache or gastrointestinal illness.
Beta-Sitosterol
Beta-sitosterol incorporates a mixture of plants containing cholesterol-like substances: sitosterols or phytoserols. Some studies suggest that beta-sitosterol can improve urine flow and reduce prostate enlargement symptoms.
Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle is commonly used to treat benign prostate hyperplasia symptoms. Stinging nettle can reduce urinary frequency, urgency, and night-time urination. It can be helpful when used alongside conventional treatments. Stinging nettle can cause minor side effects, including stomach illness and skin rash.
Tumeric
Turmeric in small doses (1/2 teaspoon per day) may have potential benefits for conditions such as BPH, but more research is needed as the absorption of turmeric at these low doses is limited. Adding turmeric to meals like smoothies or oats can be beneficial for men's health. Additionally, research suggests that combining turmeric with certain vegetables may lower the risk of prostate cancer and inhibit tumor growth in certain animal studies.
Lifestyle Changes
While lifestyle changes cannot cure benign prostate hyperplasia, they can help to improve symptoms, reducing discomfort and disruption to your life.
Weight Loss
Studies show that obesity can increase intra-abdominal pressure, putting pressure on the bladder and exacerbating the symptoms of prostate enlargement. By losing weight and achieving a healthy BMI, you can significantly improve your quality of life.
Exercise
Exercise can also help to improve prostate enlargement symptoms. Regular movement can help to fight obesity while reducing pressure on the bladder and urethra. Some exercises—such as yoga—can even directly influence prostate symptoms.
Dietary Changes
Dietary changes can be helpful in preventing and treating prostate hyperplasia. According to a study in China, a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables—especially dark, leafy vegetables and tomatoes—can successfully reduce symptoms or prevent them from worsening in many cases.
Reduced Alcohol
Research suggests that high alcohol consumption can increase the risk of prostate disease. Reducing alcohol consumption can reduce your risk of developing prostate hyperplasia or ease symptoms if you already have the condition.
Medical Intervention
While herbal and lifestyle remedies can help you manage prostate enlargement symptoms, you will need medical intervention to treat prostate health conditions.
Do you need further support or resources to help you with your prostate health? Contact Northern Beaches Interventional Radiology today.
