Men's Health

Wednesday, April 12th 2006

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Men's health concerns frequently become focused on two main aspects. The first is avoiding or alleviating prostate problems and the second is improving sexual performance. Problems with the prostate, in addition to causing frequent night time urination and incontinence can also be painful and wreak havoc with a man's self-confidence, leading to stress and depression.

What is the Prostate

The prostate gland is often-described as about walnut size and is located just below the bladder. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is quite common amongst men ages 40 to 60. Nearly 60% are likely to suffer from BPH. By the age of 80 some 85% of all men suffer from one or more symptoms. The primary effect is a progressive decrease in the ability to empty the bladder as the prostate enlarges and applies pressure to the urethra. BPH should not be confused with prostate cancer.

A study that appeared in the medical journal The Prostate, showed that in comparison with other conventional drug therapies for BPH, saw palmetto extract demonstrated equal effectiveness. All major symptoms of BPH improved, especially nighttime urination.

A unique European combination of saw palmetto and nettle has been proven very effective for BPH. Trials have proven that the combination effectively reduces prostate enlargement as well as improving function.

What to do about impotence

Impotence, now known as erectile dysfunction affects millions of men worldwide.

Optic nerve damage from prescription drugs

Viagra and Cialis, the drugs generally used to treat impotency, may be associated with an increased risk of optic nerve damage in the men with a history of heart attack or high blood pressure, suggests a small study in the British Journal of Ophthalmology.

Other side effects may include headache, flushing, upset stomach, diarrhea, increased sensitivity to light and even changes in the way users perceive blue/green colours.

Natural alternatives

Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium maxim) was perhaps the very first major herb to address impotence. Its effect was ascribed to the increased level of dopamine, which helps to release the luteinising hormone from the pituitary gland, which in turn stimulates the testes to produce testosterone.

Potency wood (Muira puama) is a Brazilian traditional botanical that has been shown to increase libido. The herb Tribulus terrestris has been reported in the International Journal of Andrology to improve sexual desire and enhance erection. Ginkgo biloba in several studies caused increased peripheral blood flow. Panax ginseng or Korean Ginseng has been used in China for centuries as a tonic to help overcome fatigue and improve mental and physical activities. Maca extract promotes libido, sexual potency and energy and assists with erectile dysfunction.

Nature's Way Prostol - A unique formula of saw palmetto and nettle

Radiance ProstAid - This prostate formula combines saw palmetto, pumpkin seed oil and zinc.

Radiance Man-Power - A formula that includes Horny Goat Weed, Potency wood, Maca, Tribulus, Ginkgo biloba, Korean Ginseng and Cayenne.

Reproduced unabridged from the April - June 2006 issue of Health and Herbal News, with the kind permission of Health and Herbs International Ltd.

The following products are all useful for men's health :

Herbal Y Extreme for Men
Men's Hormone Support
Man Power
Prostadoc
ProstAid
Prostol
Protech Prostate Formula
Prosgenia A+B
Prosgenia C
Saw Palmetto
Tribulus 20,000
Zinc

Related health information can be found here:

Alfamax, a rich source of Vitamins and Minerals
DIM Plus to assist in cancer prevention
Energy
Ginkgo Biloba
Hormonal Changes
Impotence
Improve fertility levels and libido with Tribulus
Prostate
Tired and Lacking Energy?

Related articles can be found here:

Balance Your Estrogen/ Testosterone Levels Naturally With DIM (Dinndolylmethane)

Doctors Recommend a Multi-Vitamin a Day

Help for Men's Hormonal Power

Lifestyle Changes May Prevent or Reverse Prostate Cancer

New Zealanders Need Zinc

Saw Palmetto Extract Effective in Treating Chronic Prostatitis

Second Prostate Cancer Gene Found

Siberian Ginseng

If you need help or advice, you are welcome to email our naturopathic team with your health question.

Disclaimer: The health information presented here has been written for the New Zealand health consumer. It is of a general nature and is only intended to provide a summary of the subjects covered. The information is not intended to be comprehensive or to provide medical advice to you. While all care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, no responsibility or liability is accepted, and no person should act in reliance on any statement contained in the information provided. All health ailments should be treated by a qualified health professional.

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