Every man should be thinking about his prostate health. While this small gland may not receive too much attention, it plays an important role in your overall health and is vital to a properly functioning body. Diet, exercise, and even prostate health supplements (like Prostate 911) can help protect and maintain the health of your prostate, which is so important because prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer in men.
But how exactly do you protect your prostate? Certain ingredients and foods, some of which are found in prostate health supplements, can help protect and maintain the health of your prostate. Here, we take a closer look at two of these ingredients, pumpkin seeds and nettle root, to learn more about their health benefits and how they can help prevent prostate cancer.
WHAT IS THE PROSTATE AND HOW COMMON IS PROSTATE CANCER?
Positioned near the bladder, the prostate is a small gland that produces seminal fluid that helps transport sperm. This is important for sexual wellness and the ability to have children. While this gland is small, it’s very susceptible to cancer.
In fact, according to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the leading cause of cancer for men in the United States—following only skin cancer. While prostate cancer is most common for men in their 60s and older, it can occur in those even younger. This is why screening exams should be a part of your regular medical checkup when men hit their 40s.
PUMPKIN SEED AND PROSTATE HEALTH
As kids hollowing out pumpkins to make jack-o-lanterns every October, most of us remember those heaps of pumpkin seeds. While some families turn these into a treat by roasting pumpkin seeds, many simply throw them away. But did you know that those seeds are packed with health benefits and can even protect your prostate?
BPH, or benign prostatic hyperplasia, occurs when the prostate gland becomes enlarged. This can lead to problems urinating and even more serious bladder issues. Some studies have shown a connection between eating pumpkin seeds and a reduction in BPH symptoms. Some research has even shown a link between pumpkin seeds and relief from an overactive bladder. While additional research is needed, these initial results are hopeful.
In addition to helping your prostate, here are some of the additional health benefits of pumpkin seeds:
1. Nutrient dense.
Although small, pumpkin seeds are filled with nutrients. These seeds are filled with vitamin K, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper. They also have a lot of fiber and beneficial protein.
2. Packed with antioxidants.
Rich in carotenoids and vitamin E, pumpkin seeds can help you fight off illnesses with all their antioxidants. They can also help reduce inflammation.
3. Reduce cancer risk.
While additional research is still needed, some studies suggest that pumpkin seeds can reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, including stomach, lung, colon, and prostate cancer.
4. High in magnesium.
Magnesium is an important nutrient for your body as it plays a role in a variety of functions, including regulating blood sugar levels, controlling blood pressure, and maintaining bone health. Pumpkin seeds are one of the best dietary sources for magnesium.
5. Heart health.
Due to their high levels of magnesium, zinc, and antioxidants, pumpkin seeds may also be beneficial for your heart health. Some studies have hinted at a link between consuming pumpkin seeds and an increase in nitric oxide throughout the body. Nitric oxide helps improve blood flow by expanding your blood vessels.
NETTLE ROOT AND PROSTATE HEALTH
Commonly referred to as stinging nettle, nettle root has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. While the leaves naturally have hairs that sting and can cause itching and swelling, the plant is safe to consume when converted to its supplement form.
This plant has a range of health benefits, including the treatment of BPH and its associated symptoms. Some studies have shown that nettle root can reduce the symptoms of BPH and even reduce your prostate size. It does this by preventing the creation of dihydrotestosterone, a powerful form of testosterone. Nettle root can also help individuals who suffer from urination problems.
In addition to assisting with prostate health, here are some of the other top health benefits associated with stinging nettle.
1. Nutrient dense.
Similar to pumpkin seeds, nettle root is also packed with nutrients. Nettle root contains significant levels of amino acids, vitamin A, vitamin K, and many B vitamins.
2. Reduce inflammation.
Some initial research points out that nettle root can help relieve the symptoms of inflammation. Using nettle root cream or taking a supplement, in some studies, has worked to soothe the pain and reduce the swelling common with inflammation.
3. Treat hay fever.
Many of us have experienced hay fever at one point, an allergic reaction that causes sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, and an itchy throat. Nettle root is viewed as a potential natural treatment for this allergic reaction as nettle root extract can prevent inflammation that triggers the allergic attack.
4. Lower blood pressure.
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), roughly a third of adults in America suffer from high blood pressure, which is another reason why nettle root supplement may be so valuable. Some studies have shown that nettle root increases your body’s production of nitric oxide, which helps lower your blood pressure levels.
CONCLUSION – HOW DO PUMPKIN SEED AND NETTLE ROOT PROTECT PROSTATE HEALTH?
Following skin cancer, prostate cancer is the leading cause of cancer for men in the United States. While this type of cancer is usually not that aggressive, thousands of men still lose their lives each year to prostate cancer. This is why it’s important to protect your prostate by exercising regularly, not smoking, eating less meat, and incorporating more fresh vegetables and fish into your diet.
If you’re looking for an additional boost to your prostate health, you’ll definitely want to consider making prostate health supplements a part of your diet. Pumpkin seed and nettle root are two of the active Prostate 911 ingredients that can help protect and maintain your prostate health—in addition to a wealth of additional health benefits. Isn’t it time that you started to do more to protect your prostate health?
