Prostate Problems Virtually A Fact Of Life

Prostatitis, also known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia or BPH, is an inflammation of the prostate gland, which is located under the bladder and in front of the rectum. A common cause is a bacterial infection spread from the urethra or other part of the body carried through the blood. There are several other contributing factors; intermittent sexual contact, venereal disease, the use of a urinary catheter, a zinc deficiency, prolonged use of antihistamines and decongestants, exposure to pesticides and heavy metals, stress, and even high cholesterol levels are believed to promote prostate enlargement.

Symptoms include a burning pain when urinating and an increased frequency of urination. There could be some penile discharge or blood in the urine. Pain in the lower back, around the scrotum and rectum often accompanies prostatitis.

As frightening as this disease can be, there are a number of natural things that can be done to produce positive results. Maintaining a high fiber, low fat diet is helpful as fiber supports the digestive system and helps to eliminate toxins and high fat diets have also been linked to prostate problems. An absolute must is to increase zinc in your diet. Pumpkin seeds or pumpkin seed oils are high in zinc. Eat plenty of artichokes and asparagus; they are helpful in cleansing the prostate gland. Supplement your diet with calcium/magnesium; these are necessary for the gland to function normally. Bee pollen has been used to treat prostate problems in Europe since the early 1960's. It helps to reduce the inflammation and infection. However you are advised to always introduce bee pollen to your body slowly, by taking tiny amounts initially and gradually increasing the dosage. Always check with your health care practitioner if you have allergies. Saw Palmetto has strong anti-inflammat! ory properties and is used extensively in Germany for Benign Prostate Enlargement.

All men over 45 years of age are strongly encouraged to have your family physician do a yearly digital rectal examination (DRE) of the prostate to determine its size. Also, a prostate-specific antigen test (PSA - a blood test) can be done to determine your risk of prostate cancer. The Male Health Centres of Canada are currently evaluating a number of new oral treatments for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). Early diagnosis provides the best chance of treating prostate cancer successfully. nnnn