Guide to Natural Prostate Care

CONTENT
Your Prostate Gland ............................................................................................... 5 Prostate Disorders ............................................................................................... 7 Diagnosis and Symptoms ............................................................................................... 8 Methods for Prostate Care ............................................................................................. 11 Ayurveda and Prostate Health ............................................................................................. 13 Herbs for Prostate Health ............................................................................................. 14 The Prostate Diet ............................................................................................. 17 Supplements for Healthy Prostate ............................................................................................. 25 Lifestyle Recommendations ............................................................................................. 27 Important Trivia ............................................................................................. 28 Additional Resources ............................................................................................. 29

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Disclaimer The information in this book is intended to be used for educational purposes only. This book is published with the understanding that authors and publisher are not providing medical advice of any kind, nor is this book intended to replace medical advice, nor to diagnose, prescribe or treat any disease, condition, illness or injury.

Before beginning any diet or exercise program, including any aspect of the guidance in this book, it is advised that you seek full medical consultation from your physician about your medical condition. Author and publisher claim no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application or interpretation of the material in this book.

YOUR PROSTATE GLAND

The prostate is an exocrine gland of the male reproductive system. Its main function is to store and secrete a clear fluid that constitutes up to one-third of the volume of semen. A healthy prostate is slightly larger than a walnut.

It is situated in front of the rectum, just below the bladder where urine is stored, and surrounds the tube (urethra) that carries urine from the body. The gland functions as part of the male reproductive system by producing the white fluid that contains semen. The prostate also contains smooth muscle that helps expel semen during ejaculation; thus, prostate problems can lead to impotence.

The prostate gland has four distinct glandular regions: 1. The Peripheral Zone (PZ) This zone is a sub-capsular portion of the posterior aspect of the prostate gland which surrounds the distal urethra and comprises up to 70% of the normal prostate gland in young men. It is from this portion of the gland that more than 70% of prostatic cancers originate. 2. The Central Zone (CZ) This zone constitutes approximately 25% of the normal prostate gland and surrounds the ejaculatory ducts. Central zone tumors account for more than 25% of all prostate cancers. 3. The Transition Zone (TZ) This zone is responsible for 5% of the prostate volume and very rarely is associated with carcinoma. The transition zone surrounds the proximal urethra and is the region of the prostate gland which grows throughout your lifetime. It is involved in benign prostatic enlargement. 4. The Anterior Fibro-muscular zone This zone accounts for approximately 5% of the prostatic weight, is usually devoid of glandular components, and composed only, as its name suggests, of muscle and fibrous tissue.

PROSTATE DISORDERS

Normal to Enlarged Prostate

What is BPH? Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. "Hyperplasia" refers to the tissue growth that occurs when prostate cells increase in number. A prostate gland can grow as much as 50 to 100 grams with the occurrence of BPH. Imbalance of the male hormones, particularly the estrogen-testosterone ratio, contributes to the development of the disease. What is Prostatitis? Prostatitis is an infection of the prostate gland. The term prostatitis refers to prostate inflammation. It occurs in four forms: Acute Bacterial Prostatitis, Chronic Bacterial Prostatitis, Chronic Non-bacterial Prostatitis, and Asymptomatic Inflammatory Prostatitis. Non-bacterial prostatitis can be caused by a nerve problem or muscle malfunction whereas, acute and chronic bacterial prostatitis are mainly caused by bacteria. What is Prostate Cancer? Abnormal cell division in prostate gland tissue causes malignant growth or tumors. The underlying causes of prostate cancer are unknown. Risk factors for the condition include age, ethnicity, lifestyle, and family history. About one in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during his lifetime. Risks increase at the age of 50 in white men and at the age of 40 in black men with no family history of the disease. African American men are at higher risks of the disease. Japanese and African males living in their native

lands have low incidence of prostate cancer. Men whose relatives have had prostate cancer are considered to be at high risk, too. Smoking and high dietary fat diet are contributing factors for higher prostate cancer risks.

DIAGNOSIS AND SYMPTOMS Although there are significant differences between BPH, prostatitis, and prostate cancer, they have similar symptoms. It is important that you go for a routine prostate examination especially if you experience urinary abnormalities. Men above the age of 40 will frequently start having problems with their prostate gland. The following diagnosis flowchart will help you to gain a better understanding of your prostate condition.

Visit our Prostate Diagnosis website to make full use of this chart.

Common symptoms of prostate disorders:

Difficulty or pain while urinating Difficulty or pain when starting to urinate Burning sensation while urinating Pelvic pain Dribbling or incontinence Impotence Weak urine flow Frequent urination Urinary tract infection A feeling that your bladder never fully empties Urgency to urinate

PSA TEST Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by cells of the prostate gland. PSA is present in small quantities in the serum of men with healthy prostates, but is often elevated in the presence of Prostate Cancer, Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), and Prostatitis. The PSA Test measures the level of PSA in the blood: Normal - 0 to 2.5 ng/ml Elevated - 2.6 to 10 ng/ml High - 10 to 19.9 ng/ml Very High - 20 ng/ml or more

During annual tests, it is normal for your reading to go up by a few tenths of a point every year. A drastic increase in PSA (an increase of at least 0.75 points or 20 percent) is considered a reason to worry. This test is

recommended on an annual basis for all men over 50 (and for men above 45 if there is a family history of prostate problems). If your PSA is greater than 10, then you might have Prostate Cancer. You should request a DRE and / or Biopsy from your doctor for further diagnosis. If your PSA is greater than 2.5 but less than 10, then you should request a Free PSA Test for further diagnosis. The Free PSA Test, also known as PSA-f or FPSA or PSA II, helps your doctor decide whether you need a biopsy.

Free PSA Test Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by cells of the prostate gland. It circulates in the blood either attached to other proteins ("bound") or unattached ("free"). It is normal to have both bound and free PSA. The "percent-free" PSA can be calculated by dividing the amount of free PSA by the total PSA. Free PSA above 25% is considered high and is indicative of BPH (Benign Prostate Hyperplasia). Free PSA below 15% is considered low and is indicative of Prostate Cancer and the next step might be a re-test in a month or a biopsy. Free PSA below 7% means that Prostate Cancer is likely and a biopsy is the next step.

Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) A Digitial Rectal Exam (DRE) is done to check for growth in or enlargement of the prostate gland in men. During the examination, a doctor puts a lubricated gloved finger into your rectum. A tumor in the prostate can be felt as a hard lump. BPH is usually felt as smooth, firm enlargement of the prostate. If a hard lump is detected, your doctor will most likely request that a biopsy be done to check for prostate cancer.

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International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) is a symptom index for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). It was developed and validated by the American Urological Association (AUA). The IPSS is a reliable predictor of BPH. To calculate your IPSS, please take this test.

METHODS FOR PROSTATE CARE It is best to consult with several doctors to find the best treatment for prostate disorders. The medical methods that are available for prostate cancer are:

Radiation Therapy Radiation therapy uses high-powered energy to kill cancer cells. Side effects of radiation therapy include painful urination, frequent urination, and urgent urination.

Hormone Therapy Hormone therapy treatment is performed to stop your body from producing the male hormone, testosterone. Prostate cancer cells need testosterone to help them grow rapidly.

Surgery to remove the prostate Surgery for prostate cancer involves removal of the prostate gland, several surrounding tissue, and a few lymph nodes.

Freezing prostate tissue Freezing prostate tissue kills cancer cells. This method involves freezing and heating the tissues surrounding the prostate. The cycles of freezing and thawing kill the cancer cells, and some surrounding healthy tissue.

Heating prostate tissue using ultrasound

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High intensity ultrasound treatment uses strong sound waves to heat prostate tissue, causing cancer cells to die.

Chemotherapy Chemotherapy treatment uses drugs to kill growing cells rapidly, including cancer cells. It can be administered through a vein in your arm, in pill form, or both.

BPH cannot be cured. Treatments only reduce symptoms: Transurethral microwave therapy (TUMT) TUMT uses high temperature to kill tissue inside the prostate. An antenna is inserted into the urethra to send out microwave energy which heats the inside of the prostate - causing the tissues to shrink. Transurethral needle ablation (TUNA) TUNA uses heat to destroy specific areas of the prostate that are blocking urine flow. A needlelike device is inserted up the urethra inside a tube called a catheter. The tube protects other tissues from being burned as the device delivers heat to targeted areas of the prostate.

Prostatitis is usually treated with oral drugs and physical therapy: Medications Medications for prostatitis include antibiotics, alpha blockers, pain relievers, and muscle relaxants. Physical Therapy Physical therapy for prostatitis includes exercise, biofeedback, sitz baths, and prostate massage. Warm soak may also help lessen pain and relax the lower abdominal muscles. However, majority of men are opting for natural ways to improve and maintain their prostate health. They turn to natural herbs to treat the

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underlying causes of their condition. Diet and lifestyle changes are highly encouraged also.

AYURVEDA AND PROSTATE HEALTH

Ayurveda is an ancient medical system based on the principle of balance. Its fundamental aim is to keep the body, mind, and spirit in perfect harmony. Ayurveda believes that imbalance causes the development of diseases. This whole medical system is strong in using herbs for treatment and disease prevention. According to Ayurveda, prostate problems occur from contributing factors like dehydration, sedentary lifestyle, improper fasting, too much intake of bitter and pungent foods, overconsumption of alcohol and caffeine, overuse of the sexual organs, and insufficient intake of urine purification foods. Ayurveda prescribes herbs to support prostate function.

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HERBS FOR PROSTATE HEALTH

Boerhavia (Boerhavia Diffusa) Supports urogenital muscles

Guggul (Commiphora Mukul) Maintains innate prostaglandin levels

Holy Basil (Ocimum Tenuiflorum) Promotes healthy inflammation response

Orchid Tree (Bauhinia Variegata) Promotes healthy levels of DHT

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Sensitive Plant (Mimosa Pudica) Supports normal prostate cell health

Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus) Supplies phytoestrogens

Three-Leaf Caper (Crateva Nurvala) Serves as a bladder tonic

Tribulus (Tribulus Terrestris) Supports normal LH and testosterone levels

Extracts from all of these herbs are contained in the Ayurstate prostate care supplement. You can learn more about these herbs and Ayurstate at http://www.ayurstate.com .

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Visit http://www.ayurstate.com to learn more!

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THE PROSTATE DIET Your diet has a major impact on your prostate health. The following are highly recommended for optimal prostate care.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are jam-packed with antioxidants, fiber, minerals, polyphenols, and vitamins with anti-inflammatory and free radical-fighting abilities to support prostate health. Eating 4 to 5 servings of vegetables and 2 to 3 servings of fruits daily promotes a healthier prostate. Healthy Fats

Polyunsaturated fats are made up of omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids. Omega-3s come from fish, seafood, and vegetable oils while

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omega-6s are mostly found in vegetable oils, nuts, and meats. These essential fatty acids have strong anti-inflammatory properties.

Plant Protein

Plant protein is more beneficial for prostate health as compared to animal protein. Diets rich in plant protein have been shown to reduce rates of cancer and prostate diseases. An adults protein requirement is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight per day. This converts about 54 grams of protein daily for a 150 lb (68 kg) adult. Opt for a healthier choice when obtaining the recommended daily intake of protein. Give priority to beans, lentils, seitan, tempeh, and high protein grains such as amaranth and quinoa in your diet over 7-ounce steaks. These can easily help you reach your personal protein need without introducing saturated fats, hormones, and steroids to your body.

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Whole Natural Foods

Whole natural foods do not have harmful additives. More than 14,000 manmade chemicals are added to our food supply to prolong shelf life nowadays. These additives have a negative impact on your overall health and engender hormonal imbalances that affect your prostate. Additives and preservatives cause your blood to become more acidic and thicken. This decreases your bloods ability to supply proper nutrients throughout your body. Thick blood also serves as a better host for harmful organisms like bacteria, virus, and parasites. Over time, thick blood starts to clog your detoxification organs (liver, kidney, and colon). Clogged detoxification organs can affect mood, hormonal regulation, and immune function. Green Tea

Green tea is high in catechin, an antioxidant famous for its prostatesupporting properties. Catechin has been proven to combat prostate cancer. It fights deadly bacteria and inhibits the growth of putrefactive bacteria

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without harming friendly bacteria. Catechin also prevents free radicals damage.

Water

Your prostate functions optimally with sufficient water. When you maintain hydration, you assist your body in eliminating environmental toxins, including the byproducts of metabolism. Toxin overload from food, air, and medicines causes your body's systems to weaken. Water detoxifies your body, allowing your body organs to perform well.

Increase Soy Intake

Researchers believe that the estrogen-testosterone imbalance induced by age causes the prostate gland to enlarge. 2 ounces or more of soy in your daily diet will help restore these hormones at optimal ratio. Good sources of soy include tofu (soybean curd), miso, tempeh, roasted soy nuts, and soy flour or powder.

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Increase Selenium Intake

Selenium is a trace mineral that helps reduce oxidation in the prostate. It also helps your body produce selenoproteins, compounds that protect your cells from damage. Selenium-rich foods include wheat germ, tuna, herring and other seafood and shellfish, beef liver and kidney, eggs, sunflower and sesame seeds, cashews, Brazil nuts, mushrooms, garlic, onions, and kelp.

Increase Zinc Intake

Consume at least 15 mg of zinc daily for a healthy prostate. Adequate zinc prevents the formation of dihyrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of the male sex hormone testosterone that causes the prostate to enlarge. Zinc also reduces risk of prostate cancer by lowering estrogen and prolactin levels. Pumpkin seed in the shell, oysters, beans, and nuts are excellent sources of zinc.

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Foods to Avoid Beware of the foods you need to avoid while increasing your consumption of the beneficial ones:

Fast Foods mainly consist of fat and salt. Asides from encouraging weight gain, diabetes, and heart diseases, saturated fat raises testosterone levels which in turn stimulate the growth of prostate tissue.

Meat, when taken in high amounts, exposes you to high levels of carcinogens. This high exposure can lead to all types of cancer, including prostate cancer.

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Calcium and dairy foods when taken in high quantity increase risk of prostate enlargement by reducing vitamin D metabolism. Sufficient amount of Vitamin D in the body is essential to maintain a healthy prostate. Low-fat milk, in particular, increases the risk of non-aggressive tumors.

Sugar threatens immune response, lowers resistance to infection, and weakens your bodys ability to recover from illnesses. Experts believe that sugar fuels cancer cell growth.

Alcohol in excessive amounts raises risk of prostate enlargement and highgrade prostate cancer. Alcohol disrupts hormonal balance to significantly affect your prostate condition.

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A study also suggests that alcohol diminishes the preventive properties of finasteride, a drug that has been shown to reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

Foods containing acrylamide can increase prostate cancer risks. Acrylamide has been labeled as a probably human carcinogen. High intake of this chemical leads to cancer. French fries, potato chips, and baked goods like doughnuts contain high levels of acrylamide.

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Canned tomatoes should be avoided at all times. While tomatoes are good for your prostate, canned tomatoes are not. Tin cans are lined with bisphenol-A (BPA), a synthethic estrogen that can seep into the tomatoes. BPA has been linked to cancer and other health problems.

Microwave popcorn should also be avoided. The lining of microwave popcorn bags contain perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a chemical linked to infertility and cancer.

SUPPLEMENTS FOR HEALTHY PROSTATE

Supplementation plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy prostate. Diet alone cannot provide the nutrition needed by your prostate. Many natural

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supplements support prostate health by fighting urinary problems and reducing inflammation. The following nutrients support prostate health:

Beta-sitosterol is an effective natural treatment for prostate enlargement. Cayenne contains capsaicin, a substance with an ability to kill prostate cancer cells. Cranberry contains a unique phytonutrient known as proanthocyanidins. They prevent bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls, thus, preventing infections. Glutamic acid helps relieve symptoms associated with prostate enlargement. Pollen extracts have the ability to significantly reduce symptoms of BPH and prostatitis. Quercetin helps fight inflammation. It reduces the size of the prostate and delays the spread of prostate cancer. Stinging Nettle is an effective anti-inflammatory agent. It helps to manage prostate and urinary tract disorders. Turmeric contains an active ingredient curcumin, an anti-inflammatory antioxidant that helps to maintain prostate health. Vitamin D decreases the risk of prostate enlargement. Vitamin E contains anti-inflammatory properties that help men with BPH. Zinc reduces the risk of infections and prostatitis.

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LIFESTYLE RECOMMENDATIONS

Multivitamins Intake Take a daily multivitamin supplement which includes Vitamin A (25,000 IU), Vitamin E (1,200 IU), and Lycopene (10 mg) to support prostate health. Improve Circulation Perform Kegel exercises to improve blood flow to the prostate and urogenital tissues. Kegel exercises are done by pulling up all the muscles around the scrotum and anus, holding and releasing. 10 repetitions of this movement, 5-6 times daily will maximize blood flow to your prostate gland. Adopt a Healthier Lifestyle Achieve sufficient rest and exercise. Regular exercise has been shown to strengthen the immune system, improve digestion, fortify circulation, and facilitate the removal of waste matter from the body. Regular exercise also reduces the risk of prostate gland enlargement. Work out for at least 30-45 minutes six days a week. Schedule bathroom visits Urinate regularly to retrain your bladder. Do this every four to six hours during the day. Keep Warm Colder temperatures cause urine retention and increase your urgency to urinate.

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IMPORTANT TRIVIA

Phytonutrients are components of plants with inflammation and cancer-fighting properties.

Antioxidants are substances that attack free radicals, which damage the prostate tissue.

Lignans are polyphenols that possess potent antioxidant properties.

Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants and ellagitannin, a prostatefriendly phytonutrient.

Lycopene is a phytonutrient that enhances prostate health.

Fiber helps bind toxins and eliminates them from the body.

All cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, beets, and artichokes, contain a compound called sulforapane which helps repair oxidative damage and removes carcinogens.

Anti-inflammatory properties including ginger, onions, berries, pumpkin seeds, and apples are excellent support for prostate health.

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ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

More information about prostate health and other health topics can be found on the Ayurstate website: http://www.ayurstate.com And in our Newsletter archives: http://www.india-herbs.com/monthly_newsletter.php

To better understand your prostate condition, check our prostate disorder diagnosis flowchart here: http://prostate-diagnosis.com

To calculate your International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), visit: http://prostate-diagnosis.com/ipss.htm

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