Men of advanced age are very often affected by prostate enlargement: every second man over 60 and almost every 80-year-old has an enlarged prostate.
The prostate is a gland that surrounds the urethra and is involved in the production of sperm. An enlarged prostate narrows the urethra, making urination more difficult. As a result, the bladder is usually not completely emptied and those affected have to go to the toilet more often. This often also happens at night, which worsens the quality of sleep. The ability to get an erection is also impaired by an enlarged prostate.
The causes of prostate enlargement are not understood in detail. However, hormonal factors appear to play an important role. The active form of testosterone (dihydrotestosterone, DHT) can stimulate the growth of the prostate. In addition, a falling testosterone level in combination with a rising estrogen level appears to promote prostate enlargement.
Benign prostate enlargement does not necessarily lead to cancer. However, men with prostate enlargement have a significantly higher risk of prostate cancer. [1]
In the treatment of prostate enlargement, active ingredients are used that relax the muscles of the prostate, urethra and bladder. This makes urination easier. Other active ingredients inhibit the conversion of testosterone into DHT, which slows down prostate growth.
Micronutrients can also support the treatment of prostate enlargement.
Vitamin D
The prostate has many vitamin D receptors. This suggests that vitamin D has important functions in the prostate. Studies indicate that a vitamin D deficiency could worsen the symptoms of prostate enlargement. [2] Conversely, taking vitamin D seems to reduce the risk of prostate enlargement. [3]
A vitamin D deficiency is very common. Men with enlarged prostates should pay particular attention to ensuring they have a good supply of vitamin D.
Antioxidants
Oxidative stress occurs when free radicals take over. It damages the entire body. It is suspected that oxidative stress plays a role in the development of an enlarged prostate. In men with an enlarged prostate, malondialdehyde levels are increased; a marker for oxidative stress. In addition, affected men are often poorly supplied with vitamin C , vitamin E and carotenoids. These are important antioxidants in the body.
In one study, the carotenoid lycopene seemed to be able to stop the progression of prostate enlargement. [4]
Men with prostate enlargement should ensure they have a good supply of antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E. Secondary plant substances such as astaxanthin andcurcumin also have a good antioxidant effect.
selenium
Selenium is also an important antioxidant. An enlarged prostate causes inflammation and oxidative stress. Selenium appears to be able to counteract oxidative stress in the prostate.
In studies, selenium in combination with lycopene and saw palmetto extract seemed to be able to alleviate the symptoms of prostate enlargement. [5]
Omega-3
An enlarged prostate causes inflammation and affected men often have elevated inflammatory markers. Omega-3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect and are often neglected in the diet.
In studies, omega-3 fatty acids appeared to improve the effects of medications containing the active ingredients finasteride and tamsulosin. [6]
Conclusion: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant nutrients are particularly important in prostate enlargement
Prostate enlargement is associated with inflammation and oxidative stress. It is suspected that oxidative stress also plays a role in the development of an enlarged prostate. Those affected should therefore ensure that they have a good supply of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant nutrients.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3989826/
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28479770/
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16310924/
[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18156403/
