Commentary by Cory Black
As men we really should take actions to take care of ourselves now for the future, not just for longevity but also a fuller one with a healthy and active life. One area that is not especially glamorous but we need to think about, is our prostate.
A very effective natural supplement to support prostate health is saw palmetto. Extracts from the plant saw palmetto have been traditionally used by the American Indians as an herbal medicine for centuries and it is rich in fatty acids and phytosterols, a steroid compound similar to cholesterol. Unlike the cholesterol that comes with a diet high in saturated and trans fats, phytosterols that we get from plants have many health benefits.
Many issues with men’s health can be linked to loss of testosterone with age and its conversion to estrogen and other androgen hormones. One of the key benefits for men is that saw palmetto seems to inhibit the production of an enzyme called 5- alpha reductase, which is involved in the conversion of the male hormone testosterone into dihydrotestosterone. As men age, it is this androgen hormone that leads to conditions such as prostrate enlargement, often referred to as Benign prostatic hyperplasia.
The negative effects to health of BHP often involve urinary problems, from frequent urination to even difficulty of urination. Saw palmetto could be effective in preventing the condition.
Side effects are rare for saw palmetto and other benefits for healthy testosterone levels include greater retention of lean muscle, positive mood and improved libido. It’s a secret weapon.
Seek your doctor’s advice before taking any new supplement, especially if on medications. If you think you have an enlarged prostate, it is critical to see a doctor for a full diagnosis to rule out prostate cancer.
