There are a lot of misconceptions out there when it comes to enlarged prostate, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), high PSA levels, and prostate cancer.
As a naturopathic physician I focus on the latest in natural health and wellness for all my patients and I have some new information about prostate health that your doctors are probably not talking about. Here are 5 facts and misconceptions that you need to know about your prostate.
I share this critical prostate health information because as a young child I watched my paternal grandfather suffer for years with barbaric procedures and a never ending cycle of biopsies, scans and radiation. Sadly these “treatments” were not curative and t never did anything but cause him pain, frustration and time away from his family.
It is my sincere hope for any gentleman who reads this article may find some insights and inspiration to explore additional alternatives to address the root cause of their prostate imbalance.
What Is A Prostate And Why Is It Important?
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that secretes fluid that nourishes and protects the sperm. (1) The fluid contains special enzymes and hormones that help your sperm cells function properly which is extremely important when it comes to your reproductive anatomy and sexual health.
The prostate can become enlarged as a male gets older which can lead to various other health issues. As the prostate becomes enlarged, there will be an elevation in a specific protein (psa) produced by the prostate gland that seeps into the bloodstream. This biomarker is used to evaluate the health of your prostate gland.
Here are some key points that you should know that could help you with your overall prostate health:
5 Key Prostate Health Facts You Aren’t Being Told
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia is when the prostate enlarges and can grow from walnut size all the way to an apricot or lemon. (2) It is important to remember that just because you have BPH, it does not necessarily mean that you have prostate cancer. Although they may have similar symptoms, if you have any concerns see your doctor immediately.
Remember that the chance of developing cancer only increases as you age, so it is wise to make sure everything is in tip top shape.
Should You Take a PSA Test for Prostate Cancer?
#2 PSA Testing is not specific only to prostate cancer
The Prostate-Specific Antigen, or PSA, is a blood test used primarily to screen for prostate cancer. It is a protein that is produced by cancerous and noncancerous tissue in the prostate. (3)
Generally, men have their PSA evaluated and this leads to recommendation of biopsies and other invasive diagnostic tests. 90% of elevated PSAs do not result in a cancer diagnosis. it is important to know that an enlarged prostate could raise PSA levels and have nothing to do with cancer.
If you are looking for a way to shrink your prostate, having your PSA levels checked could be a great first step to promote prostate health. My motto is always – test, don’t guess. The PSA level will tell you that your prostate gland is in need of an anti-inflammatory “detox” that include adjustments in diet, lifestyle, stress management and optimization of critical nutrients, enzymes, minerals and hormones.
#3 Prostate issues can begin for men in their early 40s
Generally, men that are fifty and older experience Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, but it can occur in some as young as teens/young men. I have been seeing more patients in their forties suffering from BPH.
Although not every male will experience symptoms, here are some of the more common ones.
- Trouble urinating, whether getting started or having a steady flow
- The bladder doesn’t empty completely
- Needing to urinate often or suddenly
- Pain or burning while urinating
Pay attention to the signals your body is sending; these can help you when it comes to your prostate health.
#4 The prostate gland is an estrogen target
Estrogen is a hormone that contributes to the body’s overall function. It is vital for it to be balanced for proper sexual function and characteristics. (4)
If there is an imbalance of estrogen, your body’s receptivity to it can influence the change in tissue and size of your prostate. There are several symptoms that could indicate that you have high estrogen levels:
- Reduced sex drive
- Reduced quality of semen
- Exhaustion
- Hair loss
- Loss of muscle mass
- Difficulty focusing
#5 Stress causes an enzyme reaction that turns testosterone into estrogen
As many of us know, stress can be the root of a lot of illnesses and diseases.
In terms of prostate health, stress can prompt the body to convert testosterone into estrogen. This can cause imbalances in the prostate, which can often lead to high BPH and high PSA levels.
In my Prostate Fix Masterclass (trademark pending) I delve deeply into the way the male stress response mechanism calls up an aromatase enzyme that can flood the prostate with excesses of estrogen. The estrogen excesses lead to inflammation and physical enlargement of your prostate gland,.
In my practice I address the root causes of various illnesses and diseases to help you identify next steps to achieve your optimal health goals. If you are dealing with an enlarged prostate, these 5 key bits of knowledge can help you form a comprehensive wellness plan that works for you.
If you would like to learn more about prostate health and how to shrink an enlarged prostate naturally, I recommend registering for my on-demand Prostate Fix Masterclass. Once you enroll in this masterclass, you can watch and re-watch the video as often as you want. This will give you both a thorough understanding of the assorted influences that cause prostate inflammation, prostate enlargement, changes in PSA levels as well as ways to heal your prostate.
If you are grappling with a decision to biopsy, remove or treat your prostate I work with men to help them determine the most beneficial plan to address their individual prostate health. Please book a virtual appointment with me here. If you are interested in receiving monthly updates on diet, health and wellness, feel free to sign up here.
