Naturopathic
View
Prostate
Cancer
by Matt Targett
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One
of the most common health concerns among older men is cancer of
the prostate. The prostate is a lobed gland that surrounds the
urethra and excretes several substances that help make up seminal
fluid. The unfortunate truth is that among North American men
the incidence of prostate cancer is on the rise. Over 50 percent
of men over 40 will develop Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy, a condition
where the prostate enlarges and can cause urinary difficulties.
Some experts believe that this condition is linked to an increased
chance of developing prostate cancer. It is now estimated that
around 10% of all North American men will develop prostate cancer.
Both of these conditions can cause increased frequency of urination,
decreased urine flow and volume, and incomplete urination.
To
detect either of these conditions early on, a yearly digital exam
is recommended with your annual physical for men over 40. If cancer
is suspected a reliable blood test can be performed. The PSA level
which is "prostate specific antigen," is a protein produced
by the prostate, and will be elevated in individuals with prostate
cancer.
There
are many steps that can be taken to prevent the occurrence of
both of these conditions. Diet is the first area that must be
addressed. A diet low in sugars, animal fats, dairy and animal
proteins is a must. Also, all chemicals and pesticides should
be eliminated from the diet as these toxins have a great tendency
to collect in the prostate. It is very beneficial to increase
carotene rich foods such as yellow, orange and leafy green vegetables,
as they are excellent anti-oxidants and anti-cancer compounds.
Zinc is another element that plays an especially protective role
in the prostate, and it is found in higher concentration in this
gland than anywhere else in the body. Food sources of Zinc are
pumpkin seeds, almonds, and sesame seeds to name a few. Essential
fatty acids are also extremely important to keep down inflammation
and protect the prostate. These can be found in flax seeds, salmon
and other cold pressed oils. Another good rule of thumb is to
eat foods which promote a more alkaline body chemistry. These
include most fruits and vegetables.
If
cancer is detected there are further dietary steps that can be
taken to detoxify and decrease inflammation throughout the body.
Herbal Medicine also offers some invaluable tools for maintaining
prostate health. Saw palmetto berries are recognized around the
world for their effect on the prostate. They have been used for
many years to decrease inflammation associated with both BPH and
prostate cancer. Pygeum is another herb which has been gaining
recognition for its protective effect on the prostate and is often
used in combination with Saw Palmetto. Several other herbs are
often used to detoxify lymphatics, liver, and digestive tract
organs in individuals dealing with all types of cancers. Several
physical therapies are also very beneficial for prostate cancer
patients. Hydrotherapy offers the benefit of increasing circulation
and lymphatic flow throughout the body. Physical activity such
as aerobic exercise or rebounding will achieve similar results
as well as increasing overall sense of well-being.
Lastly
it is important to address one's mental well being to both prevent
and treat any type of cancer. Many physicians now believe that
unexpressed emotions can contribute to increased risk of cancers.
It is also undeniable that patients with a positive attitude achieve
better results from any type of treatment conventional or otherwise.
It is therefore important that cancer patients or anyone who wants
to optimize their health develop strategies such as relaxation
techniques, meditation, stress reduction techniques or otherwise
to deal with stress and other harmful emotions. If you feel you
may be experiencing any symptoms of BPH or prostate cancer it
is important that you speak with your physician. It is also strongly
recommended if you are over 40 that you receive regular physical
exams and digital exams, as the key to treating any cancer is
early detection and prevention.
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