Enlarged Prostate or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Understanding BPH and Its Effects on Health

BPH arises when the prostate gland increases in size due to age, hormonal changes, and inflammation. Testosterone and estrogen levels, along with dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play a significant role in prostate health, as hormonal imbalances may accelerate prostate growth. Inflammation within the prostate also contributes to the condition, leading to discomfort and urinary symptoms. 

 

Common Symptoms of Enlarged Prostate

• Frequent Urinary, Especially at Night: BPH often results in an urgent and frequent need to urinate, particularly during nighttime, which can disrupt sleep. 

• Weak Urine Stream and Difficulty Starting: As the prostate presses on the urethra, it may slow the flow of urine, making it difficult to state urination. 

• Incomplete Bladder Emptying: This can cause discomfort, as it feels like the bladder is never fully emptied, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections.​​

 

Naturopathic Approach to Managing ED

Hormone Balancing for Prostate Health

As men age, hormonal shifts impact prostate health, especially increases in DHT and imbalances between testosterone and estrogen.  

• Saw Palmetto: Widely studied for its ability to inhibit DHT production, saw palmetto can reduce prostate size and alleviate urinary symptoms. 

• Stringing Nettle Root: Shown to improve urinary function, stinging nettle may work synergistically with saw palmetto to regulate hormonal balance in the prostate. 

• Pygeum: Extracted from the African plum tree, pygeum has anti-inflammatory properties and supports healthy prostate size by influencing hormone metabolism.

Nutritional Support for Prostate Health

Nutrition plays an essential role in managing BPH, with certain nutrients supporting prostate function and reducing inflammation:

• Zinc: Zinc is vital for prostate health, and low levels are often associated with prostate enlargement. Zinc-rich foods like pumpkin seeds, nuts, and seafood can be beneficial. 

• Lycopene: Found in tomatoes and other red fruits, lycopene is a potent antioxidant linked to reduced prostate size and lower PSA levels. 

• Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiencies are common in men with BPH, so maintaining adequate levels can help support prostate health and reduce inflammation. 

Anti-Inflammatory Herbal Medicine 

Reducing inflammation in the prostate is central to treating BPH, as chronic inflammation contributes to tissue enlargement and urinary symptoms:

• Curcumin: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, curcumin can reduce prostate inflammation and improve urinary symptoms. 

• Green Tea Extract: Rich in antioxidants, green tea extract has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve prostate health. 

• Quercetin: This flavonoid, found in foods like apples and onions, can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both linked to BPH. 

Lifestyle Modifications for Improved Urinary Function

Lifestyle changes play a critical role in managing BPH and minimizing symptoms. Regular activity improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and promotes healthy hormone levels, all of which are beneficial for prostate health. Excess body weight, especially around the abdomen, increases inflammation and can exacerbate urinary symptoms in men with BPH. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods can reduce urinary urgency, while staying hydrated supports overall bladder health. 

Acupuncture and Stress Reduction Techniques

Chronic stress can worsen BPH symptoms by increasing inflammation and affecting hormone balance. Acupuncture and relaxation practices like deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness can lower stress levels and support prostate health. Acupuncture, in particular has shown benefits for urinary symptoms, promoting relaxation of the urinary muscles and enhancing blood flow to the prostate. ​

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Naturopathic care for BPH offers a comprehensive, individualized approach to address hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and urinary function. By focusing on the root causes and integrating natural treatments like hormone-balancing herbs, anti-inflammatory nutrition, and stress reduction, this holistic method provides a sustainable solution for long-term prostate health. Working with a naturopathic doctor for BPH can empower patients to make informed lifestyle changes and access personalized, natural therapies designed to improve quality of life, alleviate symptoms, and support health prostate function. Feel free to book a free discovery call to discuss next steps to becoming a patient.