Prostate problems

a naturopathic prescription for the signs and symptoms of B.P.H.

• B.P.H. (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) simply means a swollen prostate that isn't cancerous. Enlarged prostate problems can reasonably easily be diagnosed by your doctor. (You just need to do this to ensure that it is not prostate cancer, which demands a different naturopathic prescription and special care).
• About 1 in every 2 men will experience BPH in their lifetime. It is not only an older man's disease, but hormonal changes as you age is a recognised factor.
• A high fiber, yet low fat diet is important. Reduce butter and margarine, (try olive or linseed oil) and avoid all fried foods.
• Soy beans and foods made from soy eg tempeh, tofu are good (isoflavones). So are cooked tomatoes (lycopene) and cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, cauliflower, brussel sprouts). And pumpkin seeds! (phytosterols).
• Apples, onions, flaxseed, whole grain cereals, fruit and vegetables provide needed flavanoids and isoflavanoids.
• Apart from diet, say goodbye to smoking, coffee, alcohol and avoid decongestants. Perhaps a big lifestyle change is required.
• It is important to have adequate zinc. Foods with high zinc content include nuts and seeds, oysters, seafood, meat.
• You need to have adequate Hydrochloric Acid secretion in the stomach for zinc absorption. If you have undigested food in your stool, you might consider consulting a naturopath. Cider Vinegar (consumed with warm water with meals) may increase the production of Hydrochloric Acid.
• If you are unable to urinate at all, you must see a doctor urgently.
• Select a supplement from the following recommendations for your country (clicking the hyperlink refers you to a suitable supplier). Look for products with the following ingredients: Zinc (especially zinc sulfate), saw palmetto, Panax ginseng, nettle root, epilobium, damiana, glycine, l-glutamic acid, l-alanine, lycopene, phytosterols, Vitamin E.

If the symptoms of B.P.H. persist, you need to make an appointment to consult a professional health practitioner.

A naturopath considers WHY a man has B.P.H., and then treats accordingly.

David Wilson, Naturopath

Keep me informed about any news concerning B.P.H.