The prostate is a walnut-sized gland found in males that resides at the base of the urinary bladder. It develops during the 6th week of gestation under the influence of androgens. (1)

 

The prostate secretes an alkaline solution that forms part of the ejaculate. It has the following benefits:

• The alkaline secretions protect the sperms against the acidic environment of the vagina and help increase the lifespan of the sperms in the female reproductive tract to allow adequate time for the fertilization of the egg.

• It supports the male reproductive system as it contains several proteins and enzymes for the nourishment of the sperm.

• The prostatic fluid provides volume to the seminal fluid and facilitates mechanical propulsion from the urethra.

 

Three main clinical conditions are associated with the prostate gland.

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

• Prostatitis

• Prostatic Cancer (2)

These conditions are common in adult and middle-aged men. Today we have articulated this article to discuss natural ways to improve prostate health and prevent diseases that involve the prostate and compromise the affected individuals’ quality of life. 

 

Natural Ways to Boost Prostate Health

Dietary Patterns

1. Food and Nutrition

The role of dietary habits in maintaining prostate health and relieving symptoms due to prostatic diseases is promising. 

 

Balanced meals containing tomatoes, tomato products, zyflamend, soy proteins, omega-3 fats, green teas, and low carbohydrate content are effective in reducing the risk of prostatic cancer and limiting its progression. 

 

Diets rich in fruits and vegetables significantly reduce the risk of prostate cancer whereas meals with a high content of refined carbohydrates, total and saturated fats, and meat can increase it. 

 

2. Cholesterol Levels 

Cholesterol level is an independent factor that can increase the risk of prostate cancer. Dietary modifications and physical activities can help lower cholesterol levels. Cholesterol-lowering pharmaceutical agents may also be beneficial. 

 

Sleep Patterns 

Abnormal or disturbed sleep is found to be associated with an increased risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). A study conducted at Duke University suggested that BPH might be a manifestation of sleep disorders. (4)

 

A cohort study published in 2013 reported that men who have trouble falling and staying asleep are at an increased risk of developing prostate cancer. This finding suggests that treating disorders of sleep may help improve prostate health. (5)

 

Night shift workers and flight staff experience several physiologic, metabolic, and behavioral changes. These changes may disrupt the normal circadian rhythm, disturb the sleep cycle and affect melatonin levels as well. These factors can contribute to an increased risk of prostatic cancer. A healthy sleeping pattern is necessary for a good quality of life. (6)

 

Physical Activity

A detailed review of literature regarding the link between prostatic cancer and physical activity was published in 2012.  In 22 studies it was reported that physical activity can protect against prostate cancer. (7)

 

An updated review published in 2017 suggested that vigorous physical activity, occupational activities, and an active lifestyle can all contribute to a reduced risk of prostatic cancer. (8) 

 

Mental Health

A study conducted in 2009 studied the effect of stress management on post-surgical outcomes in patients awaiting prostatic surgery. Stress management intervention had a positive effect on short and long term outcomes. (9)

 

Exercise can also help boost mood and help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. (10)

 

Tips to Manage a Diseased Prostate

1. Urinate before leaving home or office to prevent leakage.

2. Avoid drinking water before bed.

3. Maintain adequate hydration.

4. Maintain weight according to the recommended BMI. (11)

 

Conclusion

Prostatic diseases can negatively impact the quality of life, cause a disturbance at the workplace, and may also cause embarrassment in social settings. It is important to improve and maintain prostate health for a good life.

 

References

1. Aaron, L., Franco, O. E., & Hayward, S. W. (2016). Review of Prostate Anatomy and Embryology and the Etiology of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. The Urologic clinics of North America, 43(3), 279–288. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ucl.2016.04.012

2. Singh O, Bolla SR. Anatomy, Abdomen and Pelvis, Prostate. [Updated 2019 Apr 9]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2020 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK540987/

3. Lin, P. H., Aronson, W., & Freedland, S. J. (2015). Nutrition, dietary interventions, and prostate cancer: the latest evidence. BMC medicine, 13, 3. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12916-014-0234-y

4. Charnow, J. (2019, January 16). BPH Development, Progression Linked to Sleep Problems. Retrieved July 08, 2020, from https://www.renalandurologynews.com/home/conference-highlights/american-urological-association-annual-meeting/aua-2017-annual-meeting/bph-development-progression-linked-to-sleep-problems/

5. Sigurdardottir, L. G., Valdimarsdottir, U. A., Mucci, L. A., Fall, K., Rider, J. R., Schernhammer, E., Czeisler, C. A., Launer, L., Harris, T., Stampfer, M. J., Gudnason, V., & Lockley, S. W. (2013). Sleep disruption among older men and risk of prostate cancer. Cancer epidemiology, biomarkers & prevention: a publication of the American Association for Cancer Research, cosponsored by the American Society of Preventive Oncology, 22(5), 872–879. https://doi.org/10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-12-1227-T

6. Sigurdardottir, L. G., Valdimarsdottir, U. A., Fall, K., Rider, J. R., Lockley, S. W., Schernhammer, E., & Mucci, L. A. (2012). Circadian disruption, sleep loss, and prostate cancer risk: a systematic review of epidemiologic studies. Cancer epidemiology, biomarkers & prevention: a publication of the American Association for Cancer Research, cosponsored by the American Society of Preventive Oncology, 21(7), 1002–1011. https://doi.org/10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-12-0116

7. Young-McCaughan S. (2012). Potential for prostate cancer prevention through physical activity. World journal of urology, 30(2), 167–179. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00345-011-0812-y

8. Shephard R. J. (2017). Physical Activity and Prostate Cancer: An Updated Review. Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.), 47(6), 1055–1073. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-016-0648-0

9. Parker, P. A., Pettaway, C. A., Babaian, R. J., Pisters, L. L., Miles, B., Fortier, A., Wei, Q., Carr, D. D., & Cohen, L. (2009). The effects of a presurgical stress management intervention for men with prostate cancer undergoing radical prostatectomy. Journal of clinical oncology: official journal of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, 27(19), 3169–3176. https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.2007.16.0036

10. Publishing, H. (n.d.). 10 diet & exercise tips for prostate health. Retrieved July 08, 2020, from https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/10-diet-and-exercise-tips-for-prostate-health

11. 10 natural remedies for enlarged prostate. (n.d.). Retrieved July 08, 2020, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321231

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