Men’s Health II

Prostate Health

The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system, and its health is vital to male sexual function. Disorders of the prostate include inflammation, infection, enlargement, and cancer.  

About
The Prostate gland is the size of a walnut and is found below the bladder, with the urethra passing through it.  It is both an accessory gland of the male reproductive system and a muscle-driven mechanical switch between urination and ejaculation.  The prostate gland contains and produce fluid that forms part of semen.  The internal structure of the prostate has been described as having lobes or zones.

Disorders
The disorders of the prostate gland are enlargement, inflammation, infection, and cancer.  Although these are all different, they have similar symptoms. 

Enlargement
Because the prostate does not stop growing, many men will develop an enlarged prostate as they age.  Another cause of enlargement can be Inflammation and infection.  Parasites can be at the root of this as well, because the prostate is close to the rectum and parasites could easily pass through to it.  The following are symptoms of an enlarged prostate.
Symptoms: 

• frequent urination
• feeling of not emptying the bladder
• Weak stream
• problems starting or stopping urination
• erectile dysfunction
• reduced sexual satisfaction.
• problems maintaining an erection.
• decreased libido

Cancer
Prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer and the second-highest cause of cancer-related mortality among men in the United States.  An estimated 34,700 men died of prostate cancer in 2023, representing 5.7 percent of all cancer-related deaths.

Unlike when the prostate is enlarged, prostate cancer typically has no apparent symptoms during its initial phases. Symptom severity varies based on the cancer’s location and its level of advancement. Urinary symptoms are more often attributed to an enlarged prostate than cancer. Though they are commonly lacking, symptoms and signs of prostate cancer can include the above for prostate enlargement and may also include the following:

• blood in the semen
• painful ejaculation

Usually in later stages the following:

• pain or stiffness in the abdomen, upper thigh, lower back, hips, ribs
• Swollen, weak, and/or numb lower limbs.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Lack of appetite
• Discomfort or pain in the rectum.
• Fatigue, possibly due to anemia.
• Discomfort or pain while sitting due to prostate enlargement.
• Pain in the testicles. (1)

Many of these symptoms can be caused by other disease, so anyone experiencing these should see a medical professional.

Natural Prostate Help
Maintain a Healthy Weight – Excess weight is known to increase prostate cancer, so maintain a healthy weight.
Exercise Regularly – exercise is known to help decrease prostate and other types of cancer.
Avoid Promiscuity  – men with multiple partners or with STD are at higher risk for prostate cancer.
Eat a Nutritious Diet – A diet high in fruits and vegetables are said to help prevent cancer. We need 10-12 servings every day.  Juice Plus can help fill this gap.
Take Herbs – There are many herbs that have been historically used for cancer and for prostate health.