Dietary supplement to maintain the health of the prostate gland: a full review
I. Anatomy and physiology of the prostate gland
A. Location and structure: The prostate iron, or prostate, is a small gland the size of a walnut located directly under the bladder and the surrounding urethra, a channel through which urine is excreted from the body. It consists of several shares surrounded by a fibrous capsule. Inside the gland are glandular alveoli, stroma and blood vessels.
B. Prostate functions:
- Secretation of prostatic juice: The main function of the prostate is the secretion of prostatic juice, which is approximately 20-30% of the volume of sperm. This juice contains enzymes (for example, prostatetsceptic antigen, PSA), citric acid, zinc and other substances necessary for the viability and mobility of spermatozoa.
- Regulation of urination: The location of the prostate around the urethra makes it an important participant in urination control. An increase in the prostate can squeeze the urethra, making urination.
- Hormonal regulation: The prostate is sensitive to hormones, especially to digidrotestosterone (DGT), a derivative of testosterone. DGT plays an important role in the development and maintenance of prostate function.
C. Age changes: With age, the prostate usually increases in size, which can lead to benign prostate hyperplasia (DHCH). This increase can squeeze the urethra and cause symptoms from the lower urinary tract (SNMP), such as frequent urination, difficult urination, weak urination and incompletely dispersal of the bladder.
II. Common diseases of the prostate gland
A. Benign prostate hyperplasia (DGPZH):
- Definition and prevalence: DGPZH is a non -ock increase in the prostate gland, which is usually found in men over 50 years old. The prevalence of the DGPZ increases with age.
- Causes and risk factors: The exact causes of the DGPZH have not been fully studied, but it is believed that hormonal changes, especially the increase in the level of DGT, play an important role. Risk factors include age, family history of DHCH, obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
- Symptoms: Symptoms of DHCS are usually associated with SNMP and include:
- Frequent urination (especially at night)
- The difficult start of urination
- A weak stream of urine
- Intermittent urination
- Incomplete emptying of the bladder
- Growth of urine
- Diagnosis: Diagnostics of the DHCH includes:
- Anamnesis collection and physical examination (including finger rectal examination)
- Urine analysis
- Determining the PSA level in the blood (to exclude prostate cancer)
- Ultrasound examination (ultrasound) of the prostate gland
- Urofloometry (measuring the speed of urine flow)
- Treatment: Treatment of DHCH may include:
- Observation (with mild symptoms)
- Drug treatment (alpha blockers, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors)
- Minimum invasive procedures (transuretral resection of the prostate, laser vaporization of prostate)
- Surgical intervention (open prostatectomy)
B. Prostatitis:
- Definition and classification: Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland. It is classified into several types:
- Acute bacterial prostatitis
- Chronic bacterial prostatitis
- Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain (HP/KTR)
- Sinimptomatic inflammatory prostatitis
- Causes and risk factors:
- Acute and chronic bacterial prostatitis are caused by bacterial infections.
- HP/CTB can be caused by various factors, including infections, inflammation, neurological problems and psychological factors.
- Risk factors include urinary tract infections, catheterization of the bladder, sexual activity and crotch injuries.
- Symptoms: Symptoms of prostatitis depend on the type of prostatitis and may include:
- Pain in the crotch, pelvis, back and testicles
- Frequent and painful urination
- Difficult urination
- Pain for ejaculation
- Fever, chills (with acute bacterial prostatitis)
- Diagnosis: Diagnosis of prostatitis includes:
- Anamnesis collection and physical examination (including finger rectal examination)
- Urine’s urine analysis
- Analysis of the secret of the prostate
- Ultrasound of the prostate gland
- Treatment: Treatment of prostatitis depends on the type of prostatitis and may include:
- Antibiotics (with bacterial prostatitis)
- Alpha blockers (to relieve symptoms of urination)
- Anti -inflammatory drugs
- Painkillers
- Physiotherapy
- Prostate massage
C. Prostate cancer:
- Definition and prevalence: Prostate cancer is a malignant tumor developing in the prostate gland. This is one of the most common oncological diseases in men.
- Causes and risk factors: The exact causes of the prostate cancer have not been fully studied, but risk factors include age, family history of prostate cancer, racial affiliation (African Americans have a higher risk), a high fat and low content of fruits and vegetables.
- Symptoms: Prostate cancer in the early stages is often asymptomatic. As they progress, symptoms similar to the symptoms of DHPH may appear, such as frequent urination, difficult urination and a weak stream of urine. In the later stages, pain in bones, weakness and weight loss may occur.
- Diagnosis: Diagnosis of prostate cancer includes:
- Determining the level of PSA in the blood
- Finger rectal examination
- Prostate biopsy (under ultrasound control)
- MRI prostate gland
- Bone scanning (with suspicion of metastases)
- Treatment: Treatment of prostate cancer depends on the stage of the disease, the degree of aggressiveness of the tumor and the general state of the patient’s health. Treatment options include:
- Active observation (with low aggressive cancer)
- Surgical prostate removal (radical prostatectomy)
- Radiation therapy
- Hormonal therapy
- Chemotherapy
III. Dietary supplement to maintain the health of the prostate gland: review and evidence
A. Saw Palmetto (Serenoa Repens):
- The mechanism of action: SAW Palmetto, an extract from the fruits of the palm of gray, is one of the most studied dietary supplements to maintain prostate health. It is believed that it acts in several ways:
- Inhibition of 5-alpha reductase: Saw Palmetto can block the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, which turns testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DGT). A decrease in the level of DGT can reduce the size of the prostate and alleviate the symptoms of DHCH.
- Anti -inflammatory action: Saw Palmetto has anti -inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the prostate gland.
- Blocking alpha-adrenergic receptors: Saw Palmetto can block alpha-adrenergic receptors in the prostate gland and neck of the bladder, which can help relax muscles and improve the stream of urine.
- Clinical research: Numerous clinical studies have studied the effectiveness of Saw Palmetto with DHCH. The results of these studies are contradictory. Some studies have shown that Saw Palmetto can improve the symptoms of DHCH, such as frequent urination, difficulty urination and a weak stream of urine. Other studies have not revealed a significant difference between Saw Palmetto and placebo.
- Dosage and side effects: The usually recommended dose of Saw Palmetto is 320 mg per day. Saw Palmetto is usually well tolerated, but in rare cases, side effects can occur, such as stomach disorder, nausea and diarrhea. Saw Palmetto can interact with some drugs, so before its use it is necessary to consult a doctor.
- Quality and Standardization: It is important to choose Saw Palmetto from reliable manufacturers who standardize the content of active components (fatty acids).
B. Pygeum African:
- The mechanism of action: Pygeum Africanum is an extract of African plum bark. It is believed that it acts in several ways:
- Anti -inflammatory effect: Pygeum Africanum has anti -inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the prostate gland.
- Inhibition of growth factors: Pygeum Africanum can inhibit growth factors that stimulate the growth of prostate cells.
- Improving the elasticity of the bladder: Pygeum Africanum can improve the elasticity of the bladder, which can help reduce frequent urination.
- Clinical research: Some clinical studies have shown that Pygeum Africanum can improve the symptoms of DHCH, such as frequent urination, difficulty urination and night urination. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.
- Dosage and side effects: The usually recommended Pygeum Africanum dose is 50-100 mg twice a day. Pygeum Africanum is usually well tolerated, but in rare cases, side effects can occur, such as stomach disorder, nausea and diarrhea.
- Availability problems: It is important to note that Pygeum Africanum is received from the crust of trees, and its excessive collection can harm the population of the African plum. It is necessary to choose products from companies that are engaged in sustainable bark collection.
C. Beta-sitosterol:
- The mechanism of action: Beta-Sitosterol is a plant sterine contained in various plants, such as soy, corn and pumpkin seeds. It is believed that it acts in several ways:
- Anti-inflammatory effect: beta-sytosterol has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the prostate gland.
- Improving the function of the bladder: Beta-Sitosterol can improve the function of the bladder, which can help reduce frequent urination and incomplete emptying of the bladder.
- Clinical research: Some clinical studies have shown that beta-sytosterol can improve the symptoms of DHCH, such as frequent urination, difficulty urination and night urination.
- Dosage and side effects: The usually recommended dose of beta-sytosterol is 60-130 mg per day. Beta-Sitosterol is usually well tolerated, but in rare cases, side effects can occur, such as the disorder of the stomach and diarrhea.
- Sources of beta-Sitosterol: Beta-Sitosterol can be obtained from various food sources, such as vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and legumes.
D. Zinc:
- The mechanism of action: Zinc is an important mineral that plays an important role in the health of the prostate gland. The prostate gland contains a high concentration of zinc. It is believed that zinc acts in several ways:
- Antioxidant effect: zinc is an antioxidant that can help protect the prostate cells from damage by free radicals.
- Inhibition of 5-alpha reductase: zinc can inhibit an enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which turns testosterone into DGT.
- Cellular regulation: zinc can regulate cell growth in the prostate gland.
- Clinical research: Some studies have shown that men with DGPZ often have a zinc deficiency. Zinc supplements can help improve the symptoms of DHCS and reduce the size of the prostate.
- Dosage and side effects: The recommended daily dose of zinc is 11 mg for men. High doses of zinc (more than 40 mg per day) can cause side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea and vomiting. Long -term use of high zinc doses can also lead to copper deficiency.
- Forms of zinc: Various forms of zinc are available, such as zinc gluconate, zinc citrate and zinc picoline. Qing Picolinate is considered the most easily assimilated form of zinc.
E. Selenium:
- The mechanism of action: Selenium is an important mineral that plays an important role in the health of the prostate gland. It is believed that selenium acts in several ways:
- Antioxidant effect: Selenium is an antioxidant that can help protect the prostate cells from damage to free radicals.
- Improving the immune function: Selenium can improve the immune function, which can help protect from prostate infections.
- Cellular regulation: selenium can regulate cell growth in the prostate gland.
- Clinical research: Some studies have shown that selenium can help reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
- Dosage and side effects: The recommended daily dose of selenium is 55 mcg for adults. High doses of selenium (more than 400 μg per day) can cause side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea and hair loss.
- Sources of Selena: Selenium can be obtained from various food sources, such as Brazilian nuts, tuna, eggs and mushrooms.
F. Vitamin D:
- The mechanism of action: Vitamin D is a fat -soluble vitamin that plays an important role in bone health, immune function and the health of the prostate gland. It is believed that vitamin D acts in several ways:
- Cellular regulation: vitamin D can regulate cell growth in the prostate gland.
- Improving the immune function: Vitamin D can improve the immune function, which can help protect from prostate infections.
- Anti -inflammatory effect: Vitamin D has anti -inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the prostate gland.
- Clinical research: Some studies have shown that in men with a low level of vitamin D in the blood, the risk of prostate cancer is increased. Vitamin D additives can help improve prostate health.
- Dosage and side effects: The recommended daily dose of vitamin D is 600-800 IU for adults. High doses of vitamin D (more than 4000 IU per day) can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and weakness.
- Sources of vitamin D: Vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight, fatty fish, egg yolks and enriched food.
G. Liquopin:
- The mechanism of action: Lycopine is a carotenoid contained in tomatoes and other red fruits and vegetables. It is believed that lycopine acts in several ways:
- Antioxidant effect: Lycopine is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect the prostate cells from damage by free radicals.
- Inhibition of cancer cell growth: lycopines can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells.
- Anti -inflammatory action: Lycopine has anti -inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the prostate gland.
- Clinical research: Some studies have shown that lycopine can help reduce the risk of prostate cancer and improve the symptoms of DHCH.
- Dosage and side effects: The usually recommended dose of lycopine is 10-30 mg per day. Lycopine is usually well tolerated, but in rare cases, side effects can occur, such as the disorder of the stomach and diarrhea.
- Likopin sources: Likopin can be obtained from tomatoes, tomato sauce, watermelon and grapefruit.
H. Pomegranate extract:
- The mechanism of action: Pomegranate extract contains antioxidants, such as punikalagins and ellagic acid. It is believed that it acts in several ways:
- Antioxidant effect: protects prostate cells from oxidative stress.
- Anti -inflammatory effect: reduces inflammation associated with DHCS and prostatitis.
- Potential anti -cancer activity: some studies in vitro showed that grenade extract can inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells, but additional studies in humans are needed.
- Clinical research: Studies are still in the early stages, but some preliminary results show that a grenade extract can slow down an increase in the PSA level after the treatment of prostate cancer.
- Dosage and side effects: The dosage varies, but usually is about 500-1000 mg per day. Side effects are rare, but may include stomach disorder. Pomegranate can interact with some drugs such as warfarin.
- Extract forms: Pomegranate extracts in capsules, powders and juices are available.
I. Green tea:
- The mechanism of action: Green tea is rich in polyphenols, especially epallocatechin-3-lilate (EGCG). It is believed that it acts in several ways:
- Antioxidant effect: protects prostate cells from damage by free radicals.
- Anti -inflammatory effect: reduces inflammation in the prostate gland.
- Inhibition of cancer cell growth: EGCG can suppress the growth and distribution of prostate cancer cells.
- Clinical research: Some studies have shown that the use of green tea is associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer.
- Dosage and side effects: The recommended dose of EGCG varies, but usually is about 300-400 mg per day. The use of green tea is usually safe, but high doses can cause side effects, such as stomach disorder, insomnia and anxiety.
- Forms: Green tea can be consumed in the form of a drink, and green tea extracts in capsules are also available.
IV. Recommendations and warnings
A. Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplements to maintain the health of the prostate gland, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor can evaluate the state of health, exclude contraindications and identify possible interactions with drugs. It is especially important to consult a doctor if there are symptoms associated with the prostate gland, such as frequent urination, difficulty urination or pain in the basin.
B. Do not replace traditional treatment: Bades should not be used as a replacement for the traditional treatment of prostate diseases, such as DGPZ, prostatitis or prostate cancer. They can be used as an addition to the main treatment prescribed by a doctor.
C. The choice of quality products: It is important to choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers who adhere to quality and safety standards. It is necessary to pay attention to quality certificates, consumer reviews and laboratory research results.
D. Dosage compliance: It is necessary to strictly observe the recommended dosage of dietary supplements indicated on the package or prescribed by a doctor. Exceeding the dosage can lead to undesirable side effects.
E. Possible side effects and interactions: It is necessary to take into account the possible side effects and interactions of dietary supplements with medicines. Before taking a dietary supplement, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with information about possible side effects and interactions, as well as inform the doctor about all the drugs taken.
F. Individual reaction: The reaction to dietary supplements can be individual. In some people, dietary supplements can have a positive effect on the health of the prostate gland, while in others they can be ineffective or cause side effects.
G. Not a panacea: It is important to understand that dietary supplements are not panacea and cannot guarantee a complete cure for prostate diseases. They can be useful as supportive therapy and prevention of prostate diseases, but do not replace a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet and regular medical examinations.
H. Balanced nutrition and a healthy lifestyle: To maintain the health of the prostate gland, it is important to adhere to a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low -fat proteins. It is necessary to avoid the use of a large amount of fatty foods, red meat and processed foods. It is also important to lead a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical exercises, rejection of smoking and moderate alcohol consumption.
I. Regular medical examinations: Regular medical examinations, including a finger rectal examination and determining the PSA level in the blood, are necessary for the early detection of prostate diseases, such as prostate cancer. Early detection and treatment of prostate diseases significantly increase the chances of successful cure.