Health

A Natural Solution to Common Prostate Problem

March 1, 2001 – Special to the News

By Kerry Hughes

Prostate health is important to all men past middle age. It is estimated that 50 percent to 60 percent of men over the age of 50 will develop a condition called benign prostatic hypertrophy (BHP), or an enlargement of the prostate that is not cancerous.

Typical symptoms include poor urine flow, frequent urination, painful urination, urination at night, urinary tract infections and numerous other symptoms, all associated with the reduction of the outlet of the bladder that accompanies BPH.

Saw Palmetto is the premier popular herb for maintaining prostate health. Clinical studies have confirmed taking the supplement can provide relief of BPH comparable to standard prescription medications. Saw Palmetto inhibits the enzyme that is responsible for the conversion of testosterone to Sac-dihydrotesterone, a substance that is thought to contribute to an enlarged prostate.

Saw Palmetto also reduces the effects of other hormones that may contribute to prostate enlargement, such as estrogen and progesterone. It typically takes about 30 days before the beneficial effects of taking the supplement is noticed, and treatment can be continued for years without adverse effects.

One 1996 study of 1,098 patients concluded that the extract Saw Palmetto and the prescription drug Proscar were about equally effective in treating BPH.

Saw Palmetto is available from many companies in many forms, but health experts recommend looking for a product that is 85 percent to 95 percent fatty acids and sterols. It's important to understand that a physician should diagnose BPH because the symptoms that accompany BPH can also be indications of more serious illness.

Saw Palmetto is a safe and natural supplement backed by several clinical tests. It is available where supplements are sold.

-- Kerry Hughes is a nutritional expert and consultant. She is also the executive director of EthoPharm, a research and development company, and the research director of Champion's Choice Nutrients.