10 Best Natural Prostate Supplements

The best-rated natural prostate supplement contains well-researched components such as saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol, selenium, and zinc, all of which have been proven to be effective in lowering symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and improving overall prostate health.

These prostate supplements are often used to support prostate health and potentially reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

This article explores the top 10 natural prostate supplements, their effectiveness, benefits, and cons.

What is BPH?

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a common disorder that many men get as they age. It refers to the non-cancerous enlarged prostate, which is found right below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, the tube via which pee exits the body.

As the prostate grows in size, it can constrict the urethra, resulting in urinary symptoms that can have a major impact on quality of life.

BPH is one of the most common conditions among elderly men. According to the American Urological Association (AUA), around 50% of men aged 51 to 60 have BPH, rising to 90% for people over 80.

The prevalence of BPH rises with age owing to hormonal changes, specifically the balance of testosterone and estrogen in the body. This hormonal imbalance can promote prostate health and result in the enlargement associated with BPH.

Dietary supplements and prostate natural supplements can play a role in managing these symptoms and potentially lowering the prostate cancer risk.

Symptoms of Prostate Issues

Understanding the symptoms of prostate issues is crucial for early intervention. Common symptoms include:

• Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)
• Difficulty starting urination
• Weak or interrupted urine stream
• Urgency to urinate
• Feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• Painful urination or ejaculation

These symptoms, known as lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), might impair everyday activities and overall quality of life. While BPH is not malignant, its symptoms might be similar to those of prostate cancer, thus it is best to seek medical attention from your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

10 Best Prostate Health Supplements

Natural supplements can help manage BPH and improve overall prostate health. Here, we go further into the top ten prostate health supplements, supported by relevant facts and research.

1. Saw Palmetto Extract

Saw palmetto is probably the most well-known prostate health supplement. A lot of research has looked into its usefulness in treating BPH symptoms.

For example, research published in the journal Urology discovered that saw palmetto was just as effective as the prescription medicine finasteride in relieving urinary symptoms without generating severe adverse effects.

Saw palmetto is often found in various prostate health supplements. Its mechanism of action is thought to be its capacity to block the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which transforms testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with prostate growth.

2. Prostadine

Prostadine is a supplement that contains iodine and natural extracts such as saw palmetto and neem. While clinical research on Prostadine is limited, its components have shown promise in lowering prostate inflammation and improving urine function.

Iodine is considered to help reduce prostate volume via altering thyroid activity, which in turn affects prostate health. While further study is needed to determine iodine’s effect on prostate health, studies on its general impact on endocrine function suggest that it may have indirect prostatic advantages.

Prostate health supplements like Prostadine are sometimes used alongside traditional treatments to support prostate health.

However, they should not replace standard medical treatments and should be considered complementary to prescribed therapies. It’s important to note that while these supplements may help improve prostate health, they are not a cure for prostate cancer or effective in treating prostate cancer directly.

The National Cancer Institute emphasizes that while some supplements may offer benefits, they should not be relied upon solely to treat prostate cancer or other serious conditions. Always consult with a healthcare provider to tailor prostate health supplements to individual health needs.

3. Beta-Sitosterol

Beta-sitosterol, a plant sterol, has been widely investigated for its effect on BPH symptoms. It works by increasing urinary flow while decreasing leftover urine volume. Research has discovered that beta-sitosterol dramatically alleviated BPH symptoms in males when compared to a placebo.

A meta-analysis of 519 males from different studies revealed that beta-sitosterol reduced urinary symptom ratings by 35% and increased peak urine flow by 3.9 ml/sec.

This improvement in urinary function may be beneficial in managing symptoms associated with BPH, potentially aiding in cancer prevention and the prevention of more severe prostate conditions.

However, it is not a substitute for medical treatment for developing prostate cancer and does not directly address the issue of increase prostate cancer risk. Beta-sitosterol is one of many other prostate health supplements available, and its effectiveness can vary based on individual health needs and conditions.

4. Pygeum Africanum

Pygeum, produced from the bark of the African cherry tree, has been used for millennia to cure urinary issues. It reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in the prostate. A review of clinical studies published found that Pygeum dramatically decreased nocturia and improved overall urine function in men with BPH.

According to a 2002 research, Pygeum reduced nightly urination by 19% while increasing peak urine flow by 23%. Pygeum is often considered alongside other prostate health supplements for comprehensive management of prostate health and may play a role in cancer prevention, although it should not replace conventional treatments for prostate conditions.

5. Stinging Nettle Root

Stinging nettle root is commonly reported as being used in conjunction with saw palmetto and has shown promise in treating BPH symptoms. Its effects are linked to its anti-inflammatory qualities and capacity to block the enzymes that promote prostate development.

Research published in Phytomedicine found that stinging nettle root decreased prostate enlargement and relieved urine symptoms in males with BPH.

A clinical trial including 558 men indicated that a combination of stinging nettle and saw palmetto decreased BPH symptoms by 51% after six months of therapy. This combination is frequently used among other prostate health supplements to manage symptoms and potentially aid in overall prostate health.

6. Lycopene Supplements

Lycopene, present in tomatoes and other red fruits, is a potent antioxidant associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer and BPH. According to research, lycopene supplementation can help delay the onset of BPH.

Studies suggest that lycopene, in combination with selenium supplementation, may further enhance prostate health and potentially reduce urinary symptoms. Research published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers, and Prevention discovered that men who consumed more lycopene had a 30% decreased chance of acquiring advanced prostate cancer.

7. Pomegranate Extract

Pomegranate extract is high in antioxidants, notably punicalagins, which have anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. According to studies, pomegranate can lower prostate oxidative stress and perhaps prevent prostate cancer’s evolution.

Studies suggest that combining pomegranate extract with selenium supplements may offer additional benefits for prostate health and even help in managing conditions like erectile dysfunction. Research discovered that men with recurrent prostate cancer who drank pomegranate juice had a 12-month rise in PSA doubling time, indicating a slower disease growth.

While pomegranate’s effect on BPH is poorly understood, its general advantages to prostate health are extensively documented within integrative health.

8. Zinc Supplements

Zinc is an essential nutrient for prostate health since the prostate has high levels of this mineral. Studies have shown that zinc supplementation can lessen the incidence of prostate enlargement and cancer.

However, it’s important to note that excessive zinc intake can have harmful effects, highlighting the need for balanced consumption. Randomized controlled trials have further supported the benefits of zinc for the male reproductive system, particularly in reducing prostate-related issues.

A study discovered that increased zinc consumption was connected with a 66% lower chance of having advanced prostate cancer.

Men with BPH have 75% lower zinc concentrations in their prostate tissues than healthy ones.

9. Green Tea Extract

Green tea extract includes catechins, which are powerful antioxidants with a variety of health advantages, including prostate health. According to research, green tea can help control BPH symptoms and lower the risk of prostate cancer.

Randomized controlled trials have shown that green tea’s positive effects on the male reproductive system extend to lowering the risk of prostate cancer. A study discovered that males who ingested green tea catechins had a 90% reduced chance of acquiring prostate cancer than those who did not eat green tea.

Another study discovered that green tea extract decreased urinary symptoms in patients with BPH by 34% after 12 weeks of treatment.

10. Pumpkin Seed Oil

Pumpkin seed oil contains important fatty acids and phytosterols, which have been demonstrated to benefit prostate health. Randomized controlled trials have validated these benefits, showing that pumpkin seed oil supports the male reproductive system.

A research published in Urology discovered that pumpkin seed oil dramatically reduced urinary symptoms in males with BPH.

A 2014 research of 1,400 men found that pumpkin seed oil lowered the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) by 41% after 12 months of therapy.

Other Lifestyle Changes for Healthy Prostate

Making some lifestyle modifications, in addition to using natural prostate supplements, can assist in maintaining prostate health and addressing prostate problems. Here are a few ideas:

Diet Changes to Reduce Inflammation

Consume plenty of veggies, fruits, seafood, and healthy fats such as olive oil and avocados. These foods are high in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, both of which aid in decreasing inflammation and reducing disease risk.

Many prostate supplements also focus on similar nutrients to support prostate health.

Avoid fried and processed meals, which can cause inflammation and increase risk factors for prostate issues.

When feasible, choose organic foods to reduce your exposure to pesticides and other toxins that might harm prostate cells.

Drink lots of water every day to stay hydrated, as dehydration can exacerbate prostate problems.

Stress Management

Prostate inflammation and irritation may be exacerbated by chronic stress, which is one of the notable risk factors for worsening prostate problems. Consider the following suggestions:

Deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or Tai Chi are all good ways to relax.

Exercise regularly to help lower stress chemicals and improve overall health.

Make sleep a priority, aiming for 7-9 hours every night. Sleep deprivation raises stress, which may negatively affect prostate cells.

If stress is interfering with your everyday life, speak with a therapist or counselor. Managing stress is crucial not only for general health but also as a potential factor in cancer prevention trials focused on prostate health.

Making dietary, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments, as well as taking supplements, can give overall prostate health assistance. Consult with a healthcare practitioner to create the most individualized strategy for you.

Possible Cons of Natural Supplements for Prostate Health

While natural supplements can help with prostate health, they also have some possible drawbacks. Here is what you should consider:

1. Lack of Regulation

Unlike prescription medications, natural supplements are not strictly monitored by agencies such as the FDA. This implies that the quality and efficacy of supplements may vary, resulting in unpredictable outcomes that might affect disease risk.

2. Limited Scientific Evidence

Not all natural supplements have a solid scientific basis. Some are backed by small or biased research, making their efficacy questionable. It’s important to note that while many prostate supplements are popular, not all have undergone rigorous cancer prevention trials.

3. Side Effects

Even natural vitamins might have negative side effects such as nausea, headaches, or digestive problems. Some may also interact with drugs, resulting in unwanted effects on prostate cells or other aspects of health.

4. Medicine Interactions

Supplements can interact with prescription medicines, potentially lowering their effectiveness or raising side effects. This is particularly important for those at higher disease risk or with existing prostate problems.

5. Cost

High-quality supplements can be costly, and the expense accumulates over time. This may be a financial strain, especially if you are taking several supplements to manage multiple risk factors.

When to See a Doctor?

While natural supplements can assist with prostate symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor if you have severe or chronic symptoms like blood in your urine, extreme discomfort, or an inability to pee. These might be symptoms of a more serious problem, such as prostate cancer, which necessitates medical treatment.

FAQs

What vitamin shrinks an enlarged prostate?

Vitamin D is renowned for its ability to lower the risk of prostate cancer and may aid in the shrinkage of an enlarged prostate by regulating prostate cell development and function.

Do any prostate supplements really work?

Yes, various prostate supplements, including saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol, and pygeum, have been shown in clinical trials to alleviate BPH symptoms and enhance prostate health.

What is the 5-second workout for prostate shrinkage?

The term “5-second exercise” commonly refers to pelvic floor exercises (Kegels), which entail tightening and holding the pelvic muscles for five seconds. These exercises can help improve bladder control and alleviate BPH symptoms.

How can you shrink the prostate?

Prostate shrinkage can be achieved with pharmaceuticals like alpha-blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors, lifestyle adjustments, and natural supplements like saw palmetto or beta-sitosterol.

Summary

Prostate health is an essential concern for men, especially as they age. Natural prostate supplements, including saw palmetto supplements, beta-sitosterol, and zinc, show promise for treating BPH symptoms and improving overall prostate health.

These dietary supplements not only support prostate function but may also have positive effects on the immune system. For those interested in alternative medicine, these supplements offer a complementary approach to traditional treatments. When combined with lifestyle adjustments and frequent medical check-ups, they can help keep the prostate healthy and enhance quality of life.

If you enjoyed this article, you may also want to read this article on What Are Natural Remedies For Enlarged Prostate?

*This information is not intended to serve as a substitute for professional medical or dietary advice tailored to individual needs.