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Natural Remedies for Prostate Problems

Enlargement of the prostate gland, also known as benign prostatic hypertrophy, is common as men age. The most common symptoms are problems with urination. If your doctor has eliminated an infection of the prostate or prostate cancer, natural remedies may help relieve your prostate problems.

  1. Reduce Caffeine and Alcohol

    • There are smooth muscle cells in the prostate. Caffeine causes smooth muscle cells to constrict, which can make urination more difficult. Avoid beverages that contain caffeine, including coffee, soft drinks and tea. Also avoid chocolate and beverages containing chocolate, such as hot chocolate and chocolate milk. You should avoid drinking alcohol, too.

    Reduce Stress

    • Our bodies are designed so that in times of danger, hormones are produced that allow us to respond quickly to any threat. Certain bodily activities are curtailed so that our energy can be focused toward survival. This is known as the fight-or-flight response. Unfortunately, our bodies can't tell the difference between the stresses we face every day and actual life-or-death situations. This means that our bodies are frequently flooded with stress hormones. Stress hormones make it difficult to urinate and to achieve an erection. Managing your stress may improve your prostate symptoms.

    Increase Sexual Activity

    • During ejaculation, seminal fluid from the prostate leaves the body. Increasing the amount of sexual activity you have may improve your prostate function. Prostate massage also helps ease urination problems; your urologist may perform prostate massage as a part of your office visit. You should avoid prostatic massage if you have an active infection of the prostate when massage could cause the infection to spread.

    Herbal Treatments

    • The herb saw palmetto is commonly used in cases of prostate problems. Follow package dosage directions, and allow up to six months of consistent treatment for resolution of prostate problems. Goldenseal and bee pollen also are reported to reduce inflammation of the prostate.

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