Prostate Health
Frequently Asked Questions…
What is the Prostate?
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located in the male reproductive system, just below the bladder and in front of the rectum. Maintaining a healthy prostate is one of the most important steps men can take to improving overall wellness.. Your prostate has two important functions:
- Urination Activity – Helps control the rate at which urine flows out of the bladder and into the urethra during urination.
- Sexual Activity – Makes a whitish glandular secretion which collects within the prostate and is fed into the urethra during ejaculation, which helps the motility of the sperm in the urethra and makes up about a third of the seminal fluid, thus giving seminal fluid its whitish appearance.
What are the Factors Affecting Prostate Health?
There are several issues that may affect prostate health, including family history, race, and even nationality. The first step to managing risk is to identify the factors that have the greatest impact.*
- Age: Age is one of the strongest influences on prostate health. Prostate concerns are uncommon before the age of 40, but prostate health declines dramatically after the age of 50 – in fact, most men over the age of 65 show a decrease in prostate health.*
- Diet: While the exact role of food intake in prostate health is not clear, diets containing more fruits, vegetables and fiber can benefit prostate health, as fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants, bioflavonoids and phytochemicals, while fiber helps move bulk through the intestines and control/balance intestinal pH (acidity), promotes regular bowel movements, and cleanses/detoxifies the digestive system.*
- Enlarged Prostate: An enlarged prostate increases the risk factor. Monitoring the size and health of the prostate is an important step to improving overall prostate health.*
Ways to Keep Your Prostate Healthy?
- Stay Active. Regular activity, such as walking for 30 minutes a day, can have a positive effect on your prostate, helps keep vital organs functioning properly and supports healthy blood flow.*
- Limit Alcohol and Caffeine. If possible, eliminate both from your diet completely, as alcohol and caffeine can negatively impact prostate health.
- Eat More Fish. Fish (especially sardines, salmon, and mackerel) are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help encourage optimum prostate health – and if you’re concerned about high mercury levels in some fish, try a dietary supplement of omega-3 fatty acids instead.*
- Emphasize Green Vegetables. Many of the leafy green vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts and kale contain a powerful compound called I3C, which can help benefit prostate health.*
- Consider a Prostate Supplement. When used in conjunction with a diet low in saturated fat and consistent physical activity, quality dietary supplements can offer additional benefits for optimum prostate health.*