Prioritize Your Prostate with These Health Tips

Prostate health is a topic that impacts all men worldwide. Located just beneath the bladder, the prostate is a small gland that plays an essential part in men’s reproductive health and urinary function. While often highlighted as an area of importance for older men, maintaining good health of the prostate should be a priority for men of all ages. Keep reading to learn more about proactive steps you can take towards maintaining a healthy prostate and supporting your quality of life.

Understanding the Prostate

Made up of connective and glandular tissues, this unassuming gland plays a crucial role in both urinary and reproductive health.

Reproductive Health

The prostate is found only in the male reproductive system. Its main job is to produce a fluid, known as prostatic fluid, which helps nourish, protect, and transport sperm, and is a main component of semen. The muscles surrounding the prostate help facilitate ejaculation by contracting and pushing semen into the urethra where it is then expelled. Additionally, the prostate gland is where the primary male sex hormone testosterone is converted into its functionally active form called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). ¹

Urinary Health

The bladder is a muscular organ that sits right above the prostate and stores urine. The urethra, a tube in which urine and semen are transported and released, is attached to the bladder, and runs directly through the prostate.

Because the prostate and bladder are in proximity to each other, issues with the prostate can block the urethra, affecting urination.

Common risk factors for developing prostate-related issues²:

• Advanced age
• Family history
• Ethnicity
• Testosterone levels
• Poor diet
• Physical inactivity
• Exposure to chemicals or radiation
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Alcohol consumption
• Smoking
• Sexually transmitted diseases

Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle for Prostate Health

Acknowledging that some risk factors are beyond our control, prioritizing a healthy lifestyle is key for prostate health. Regular physical activity not only strengthens bones and promotes heart health, but it also plays a vital role in maintaining prostate well-being.

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week, as advised by the American Heart Association, to reap substantial benefits for your overall health and prostate.

While there isn’t a specific list of foods that are beneficial for prostate health, adopting a pattern of healthy eating can contribute to prostate well-being. Focus on consuming a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods including:

• Fruits and Vegetables: These provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Whole Grains: Opt for whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread.
• Healthy Fats: Include sources of healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil.
• Lean Proteins: Choose lean proteins like fish, poultry, tofu, and legumes.
• Limit Red Meat and Processed Foods: Reduce consumption of red meat and processed foods, sugary snacks, and high-calorie beverages.

Additionally:

• Maintaining a healthy weight is key to support prostate health and overall wellness. Excess weight, especially around the waist, can contribute to health issues. Remember, taking care of your body through a balanced diet and regular exercise not only benefits your prostate but also enhances your overall quality of life
• Smoking exposes your body to carcinogens and alters the circulation of hormones. Quitting smoking is one of the most beneficial actions you can take for your overall well-being and prostate health
• Getting regular screenings and check-ups can help with early detection of any prostate-related health issues. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the appropriate frequency and timing of prostate screenings based on your age, risk factors, and overall health. They can provide personalized recommendations and guidance tailored to your specific needs.

Key Nutrients and Supplements for Prostate Health

Although no single food can guarantee prostate health, certain nutrients like lycopene, found in tomatoes, and selenium, found in Brazil nuts, have been associated with potential prostate health benefits.³

Supplements like Garden of Life’s Dr. Formulated Probiotics Prostate Plus can also support prostate health. †

• Prostate+ contains 500mg of Organic Flowens® Cranberry. Specifically designed to support men’s prostate health, Flowens® supports normal urine flow†
• Prostate+ also contains 1,000 IU of whole food vitamin D3 to support prostate health†
• Additionally, it contains 15 probiotic strains with 50 billion CFU to promote digestive balance and a healthy immune system†

The Takeaway

The prostate, though small in size, plays a significant role in your overall health. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, you can take a proactive approach to maintaining prostate health and overall well-being. In addition to lifestyle choices, supplements like Garden of Life's Dr. Formulated Probiotics Prostate Plus can provide support for your prostate health. † Remember to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.

References:

1. Informedhealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: 2011 Feb 15 [Updated 2016 Aug 23]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279291/

2. Rawla P. World J Oncol. 2019 Apr;10(2):63-89. doi: 10.14740/wjon1191. Epub 2019 Apr 20. PMID: 31068988; PMCID: PMC6497009.

3. Dhillon VS, Deo P, Fenech M. Effect of Selenium and Lycopene on Radiation Sensitivity in Prostate Cancer Patients Relative to Controls. Cancers (Basel). 2023;15(3):979. Published 2023 Feb 3. doi:10.3390/cancers15030979