The prostate is a tiny gland found underneath the bladder. It generates a fluid that feeds and protects sperm. The prostate can cause issues in men as they age.
Prostate enlargement, inflammation, infections, and even cancer can develop. Millions of men worldwide suffer from prostate problems, which can have a substantial influence on their quality of life.
Prostate supplements have grown in popularity as a way to promote prostate health. These supplements contain vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other natural components that may aid in the reduction of symptoms and the promotion of proper prostate function. When to use prostate supplements is determined by the individual’s health situation and aspirations. In this blog we will discuss and know if when to take prostate supplements.
What is the Function of Prostate?
In males, the prostate gland is a walnut-sized gland found underneath the bladder. It protects the urethra, which is the tube that drains urine and sperm from the body.
The prostate has two primary functions:
- It secretes a fluid that feeds and preserves sperm. This prostatic fluid accounts for 30% of sperm. The prostatic fluid is alkaline, which helps to balance the acidity of the vaginal canal and extend sperm longevity.
- It assists in the regulation of urine flow. Smooth muscles in the prostate assist in regulating the flow of pee. As the prostate contracts, it closes the urethra, preventing urine from flowing out. As the prostate relaxes, the urethra opens, allowing urine to pass. To regulate urination, the prostate collaborates with the urinary sphincter.
To function effectively, the prostate gland relies on hormones, mainly testosterone. Testosterone promotes the development and function of the prostate gland. As men age, testosterone levels fall, causing the prostate to grow, a disease known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Common Prostate Problems
Prostatitis
Inflammation of the prostate gland is referred to as prostatitis. It affects males of all ages, however, it is most frequent in men aged 30-50.
Prostatitis frequently results in painful or difficult urination as well as pain in the groin, testicles, or lower back. Symptoms may appear and go away. Prostatitis is classified into four types:
Acute bacterial prostatitis – A bacterial infection in the prostate causes this condition. The symptoms are severe and appear quickly. It might be accompanied by a fever. Antibiotics are typically used in treatment.
Chronic bacterial prostatitis – Caused by bacteria, this condition results in recurring bouts of prostate infection. Long-term antibiotics are required.
Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) – This condition causes pelvic discomfort for at least three months, as well as urine symptoms. The reason is unknown, however it might be related to nerves or muscles. Antibiotics are typically ineffective.
Asymptomatic prostatitis is discovered after other conditions are ruled out. It has no side effects. Treatment is seldom required.
A medical history, physical exam, testing on prostate secretions, and occasionally imaging studies are used to diagnose prostatitis. Treatment is determined by the underlying cause. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections.
Pain medicines, warm baths, and avoiding triggers are all possible treatments. Lifestyle adjustments may help control symptoms of chronic prostatitis. Surgery may be considered in extreme situations.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a benign enlargement of the prostate that affects men as they age. As a man grows, the prostate goes through two major development periods, the first of which begins around the age of 25 and lasts until the mid-30s.
The second phase begins at the age of 40 and lasts the remainder of a man’s life.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Symptoms
As the prostate grows in size, it can obstruct the urethra, causing urine symptoms such as:
- Urination regularly
- The need to urinate is pressing.
- Having difficulty initiating urinating
- The stream is weak.
- Inability to empty the bladder
- Urination often during the night
BPH is neither cancer nor the cause of cancer. However, the symptoms of BPH can have a significant impact on a man’s quality of life. If left untreated, an enlarged prostate can lead to more significant issues such as urinary tract infections, bladder damage, and kidney damage.
While the specific etiology of BPH is unknown, factors such as age and hormonal imbalance changes are believed to have a role. Medication to relax or reduce the prostate muscle, minimally invasive techniques, and surgery are all options for treating an enlarged prostate.
Making lifestyle changes like limiting beverages before bedtime, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and engaging in UR activity may also aid in the management of BPH symptoms.
Prostate Cancer
One of the most frequent kinds of cancer among males is prostate cancer. Developing prostate cancer slowly and is first restricted to the prostate gland. Prostate cancer, on the other hand, can extend beyond the prostate gland and into other regions of the body, notably the bones and lymph nodes.
It may not create any symptoms at first, but indicators to watch for include trouble urinating, blood in the urine or sperm, and pelvic discomfort.
Prostate cancer risk grows considerably as men age. Six out of every ten instances are diagnosed in males aged 65 and over. A man’s risk may also be influenced by his family history and DNA. African American males are more likely than white men to develop prostate cancer.
When is the Best Time to Take Prostate Supplements?
It is critical to take prostate supplements at the proper time to enhance their efficacy. Here are some broad rules for taking them:
- Take Prostate Supplements Every Day – Prostate supplements work best when used regularly every day. Taking them seldom will not deliver the same advantages. Include them in your everyday routine, such as with your morning coffee or before going to bed.
- Take with meals – Supplement absorption can be improved by taking them with meals. Some supplements advocate taking them with a meal that contains fat or oil, as the fat assists in the absorption of fat-soluble elements such as vitamin E.
- Follow dosing recommendations – Pay close attention to the dosing recommendations on the supplement bottle or container and make sure it is food and drug administration fda approved. Taking more than is suggested does not always result in better results. Some supplements have dose recommendations that vary depending on your age.
- Take at the Same Time – For constant levels in your bloodstream, try to take prostate supplements at the same time each day. This helps to increase efficiency.
- Spread amounts – Some supplements may advise splitting the daily dose into smaller amounts spread out throughout the day, such as morning and night. Follow the directions.
Keeping track of when you take prostate supplements helps you get the most out of them. If you are confused about the time or have more specific inquiries, see your doctor. Maintain consistency and take them as advised.
Who Needs Prostate Supplements?
Prostate supplements are often prescribed for males over the age of 50, as well as those suffering from prostate disorders such as prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostate cancer.
This can assist with symptoms of an enlarged prostate such as frequent/urgent urination, difficulty initiating a urine stream, and incomplete bladder emptying.
For those diagnosed with prostatitis, BPH, prostate cancer, or undergoing related treatments, prostate supplements can provide targeted nutritional support. The ingredients may help reduce inflammation, promote healthy prostate cell growth, and support the immune system.
Some supplements may also help mitigate side effects from procedures like surgery, radiation therapy, or hormone treatment.
Before taking any supplements, always visit your doctor, especially if you have an existing prostate issue or are receiving treatment. Your doctor can tell you whether a supplement will interfere with any drugs you’re taking or affect your unique condition.
Common Ingredients of Prostate Supplements
Several components present in prostate supplements that have been proven to help prostate health include:
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto is a berry extract from the Serenoa repens plant. For millennia, it has been used to treat urinary tract problems. Saw palmetto includes fatty acids and plant sterols that may help decrease inflammation and prevent testosterone from being converted to DHT, which leads to an enlarged prostate.
Pygeum
The bark of the African plum tree (Prunus africana) is used to make pygeum. It includes phytosterols and ferulic acids, which aid in the reduction of inflammation. According to research, pygeum extracts can help relieve urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate.
Pumpkin Seed
Pumpkin seed oil includes fatty acids and antioxidants such as zinc, which can aid in the inhibition of prostate cell development. According to certain studies, pumpkin seed extracts can enhance urinary function in men who have an enlarged prostate.
Zinc
Zinc is a necessary mineral that is involved in hundreds of biological activities. It is necessary for normal prostate and testicular function. Prostatitis and prostate enlargement have been linked to zinc deficiency. Many prostate supplements contain zinc, which is beneficial to prostate health.
Benefits of Prostate Supplements
Some of the potential advantages of prostate supplements include:
Symptom Alleviation
Certain compounds in prostate supplements may aid in the reduction of urinary symptoms linked with prostate problems.
Saw palmetto extract, for example, contains anti-inflammatory qualities that may aid in the relief of urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate. Pygeum bark extract has also been demonstrated to aid in the relief of urinary symptoms.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Prostate illnesses such as prostatitis are characterized by inflammation. Some natural products, such as saw palmetto, pygeum, and rye grass pollen extracts, have anti-inflammatory characteristics that may help lower prostate inflammation. This may aid in the relief of unpleasant urinary symptoms.
Some substances may help relax smooth muscles in the prostate and urinary system, allowing for better urine flow. Saw palmetto extract, for example, has been shown in tests to enhance peak urine flow rate in men with BPH.
This is most likely because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
Reduced Nighttime Urination
Frequent urine during the night (nocturia) is a typical condition, particularly in older men with BPH. According to certain studies, saw palmetto extract may help minimize nocturia episodes and improve sleep quality.
Improved Sexual Performance
Some prostate pills contain botanicals that may boost libido and sexual performance. Maca root and Tribulus terrestris, for example, are sometimes used to promote healthy testosterone levels and increase sex drive.
Conclusion
The best time to take prostate supplements is a combination of personal choice like green tea, consistency, and an awareness of the possible side effects of meal timing on absorption. The idea is to build a habit that coincides with individual timetables and supports consistent supplement intake for long term prostate health advantages, whether integrated into morning or nighttime routines.
To ensure that your supplement habit compliments your entire health and well-being, always emphasize open communication with healthcare specialists.
If you enjoyed this article, you may also want to read this article Can You Shrink Your Enlarged Prostate in Seconds?
*This information is not intended to serve as a substitute for professional medical or dietary advice tailored to individual needs.
References:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prostatitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20355766
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470550/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16965237/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11869585/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25196580/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7424038/
Dr. Nicolette Natale is a physician, with a background in Psychology, General Medicine, and English Literature, combining her expertise to provide readers with the most accurate, easy-to-understand, and comprehensive information regarding healthcare. She received her Doctorate in Osteopathic Medicine from Nova Southeastern University, and her bachelor’s in English Literature and Psychology from the University of Miami. Dr. Natale seeks to empower individuals with knowledge, fostering a greater understanding of holistic health and encouraging a proactive approach to well-being
