The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system. It is in front of the bowel and behind the bladder. The main function of this gland is to produce the necessary fluid to protect and enrich sperm. The nerves that control erections surround the prostate gland, which is the size of a walnut and doughnut-shaped.
Normal growth
During a man's lifetime, his prostate gland will increase in size about four times. The first growth is finished before birth, and the second growth phase occurs during puberty. In his mid-20s, the prostate gland will increase in size again, to a weight of approximately 18 grams. Another growth phase will occur when a man reaches his 50s.
Disorders and Symptoms
Several disorders can lead to an enlarged prostate, causing symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty in urination, discomfort with urination, painful ejaculation, blood in the urine, and reduced ability to get an erection. These disorders can be caused by something as simple as prostatitis, which is an inflammation of the gland, or they can indicate a more serious condition, such as prostate cancer. If any of these symptoms occurs, it is important to contact a physician to receive the proper diagnosis. Although antibiotics are the most accepted treatment for prostatitis, there are some alternative treatments to consider as well.
Alternative treatments
Herbal therapy has long been suggested as an alternative treatment for an enlarged prostate gland. Certain herbs have been shown to not only reduce the size of an enlarged prostate gland, but to prevent symptoms in the first place. Herbal supplements such as saw palmetto and red clover have been shown to reduce prostate enlargement, as they inhibit the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, in the prostate.
Nutritional therapy can also effectively treat or prevent an enlarged prostate. A low-fat diet can help to prevent the disorder, as high cholesterol levels have been linked with a larger-than-normal prostate. A diet rich in isoflavone, which is found in soybeans, can also help promote a healthy prostate gland.
Alcohol, coffee and other caffeine sources should be avoided. Pesticides have also been shown to contribute to an enlarged prostate, but eating a whole-food organic diet can protect the body against these types of toxic materials.
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