The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located just below the bladder and above the pelvic floor muscles. It has various functions that include the production of seminal fluid, which is a component of semen, the production of hormones, and helps regulate the flow of urine. Even though a person can live without a prostate gland, a healthy prostate is important for fertility. The prostate surrounds the urethra, a tube that carries urine and semen out of the body.
Healthy semen is the right viscosity and environment for the passage and survival of sperm and reproduction. Seminal fluid includes enzymes like PSA (which is usually measured as part of screening for prostate cancer), as well as other elements produced by the prostate and seminal vesicles, such as zinc, citrate, and fructose, which give the sperm energy to travel to the egg. The semen also contains substances that protect the urinary tract and sperm from pathogens.
What happens as men age?
The prostate usually grows during adolescence, controlled by the male hormone testosterone and its by-product dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Testosterone is mostly produced in the testicles, but a smaller amount is produced in the adrenal glands above the kidneys. As men age, the balance of hormones in the body changes and this may cause the prostate gland to grow. The real cause of prostate enlargement is unknown, but it is believed to be related to hormonal changes.
What are the symptoms of prostate Gland enlargement?
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Sudden strong desire to urinate, especially at night
- Difficulty starting urination
- Weak urine flow
- A sense of not fully emptying the bladder
- Leaking urine
- Blood in the urine
- Painful ejaculation
- Pain or burning sensation
- Dribbling of urine, especially after urinating
- Frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, pelvic or rectal area, or upper thighs
Even though there is no cure for the enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), there are many beneficial options that can help treat the problem. There are different types of medication that can reduce the symptoms of the enlarged prostate by helping relax the prostate and bladder muscles, or blocking the hormones that cause the prostate to grow.
There are things that you can do to prevent or help with the symptoms of enlarged prostate Gland
- Drink tea – Bearberry tea, hibiscus, and green tea are among the best drinks for the prostate because they contain powerful antioxidants that can help prevent or treat the symptoms of prostate disease
- Keep your feet warm
- Take a hot bath with a handful of Himalayan salt – Hot water will relax the muscles in the prostate and increase circulation
- Use a hot water bottle on the lower part of the abdomen while resting
- Exercise – At least three times a week take a brisk walk, ride a bicycle, go to the gym; Studies show that aerobic exercises give better results than nonaerobic
- Food
- Eat at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables every day
- Choose whole grain bread and pasta
- Limit the consumption of red meat such as beef, pork, lamb and goat and processed meat
- Choose healthy fats such as nuts, avocados, extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil
- Avoid sugary drinks and artificial sweeteners
- Reduce salt consumption
And as always, you can consider taking supplements. There are some very good ones on the market, you just need to study them well, research the testimonies of those who have used them, consult a doctor and make the right decision about which to buy.
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➥ DISCLAIMER: This post is not intended to replace medical treatment. The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.