A registered dietitian evaluated the study
Medically reviewed by Alison Harris, RDN
The prostate is a small gland in men that helps produce sperm. Prostate enlargement with age is normal. However, the risk of developing certain prostate problems increases with age.
The most common prostate diseases include:
Certain dietary supplements may support prostate health. In particular, lycopene, selenium, green tea, and saw palmetto are common ingredients in dietary supplements that improve prostate health and reduce the risk of prostate disease.
This article reviews the evidence showing that supplements improve prostate health. It also includes possible side effects, interactions and dosage information for this supplement.
What supplements to use for prostate health?
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer affecting men in the United States. Age, race, and genetics influence the risk of developing prostate cancer.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is another common prostate problem, and the number of people suffering from this disease continues to increase every year. Age, race, and medications, among others, influence the development of BPH.
Many vitamins, minerals and herbs can support prostate health and reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Supplements provide additional nutrition but are not always guaranteed. In some cases, supplements do more harm than good.
Adequate amounts of selenium, zinc, and vitamin D, as well as including antioxidants in the diet, are essential for prostate health.
Explanation
Use of dietary supplements should be individualized and reviewed by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian (RD), pharmacist, or healthcare provider. No dietary supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Nutrition for prostate health
Vitamins, minerals and various herbs can support prostate health by reducing inflammation and the risk of prostate cancer.
selenium
Selenium is essential for DNA stability and cell health. It also acts as an antioxidant to reduce cell damage.
Studies in large populations show an association between low selenium levels and a higher risk of prostate cancer. However, randomized controlled trials show mixed results. Initial nutritional status may influence the risk of prostate cancer when taking selenium supplements. The form of dietary supplement may also affect the effectiveness of selenium.
Supplementing with 500 micrograms (mcg) of selenium per day does not reduce the risk of prostate cancer in men aged 50 years and over. Researchers stopped one study prematurely because no benefits of selenium supplementation were observed. Several studies examining selenium on prostate health found an increased risk of diabetes with supplementation.
The Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) of the Institute of Medicine (IOM) has set the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for men aged 14 years and over at 55 mcg selenium.
Selenium may interact with certain medications. Cisplatin, a type of chemotherapy for certain types of cancer, can lower selenium levels. Conversely, selenium can reduce the side effects of cisplatin.
zinc
Zinc is an important nutrient in tissues with high levels of cell turnover, such as prostate tissue. In addition, zinc is necessary for sperm production and health. Health problems occur when prostate cells are no longer able to store zinc.
Some studies show that low zinc levels are associated with prostate cancer. However, zinc supplementation may increase the risk of prostate cancer.
Conflicting data limits the use of zinc supplements for prostate health. Additionally, certain dietary supplements may influence the effects of zinc.
The recommended daily zinc allowance for men aged 14 years and over is 11 milligrams (mg) per day. Excessive zinc intake reduces the absorption of other important nutrients such as iron and copper.
Some antibiotics can interact with zinc and reduce the absorption of both antibiotics if taken together. Diuretics increase the excretion of zinc from the body, thereby reducing the supply of the nutrient.
lycopene
Lycopene is a plant substance (carotenoid) that gives fruit and vegetables their red color. Tomatoes are a powerful source of lycopene.
Lycopene supports prostate health through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which protect cells from damage.
Tomato supplements and products containing lycopene can relieve symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Lycopene may reduce the risk of certain cancers, including prostate cancer.
There is not enough research to support the use of lycopene for prostate health and reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Lycopene from tomato foods or products may support prostate health. However, taking lycopene supplements does not seem to have the same positive effects.
Lycopene appears to be safe in doses of 15 to 45 mg per day for up to six months. Tomatoes contain 0.88 to 7.74 mg of lycopene per 100 grams (g), approximately the weight of a small tomato. The lycopene content in tomatoes depends on the type and ripeness of the fruit.
Lycopene can cause blood clots. Taking lycopene with blood thinners or antiplatelets may increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. Be careful when taking lycopene with other medications, as it may increase the risk of bleeding.
green tea
Certain plant substances found in green tea ( catechins ) contribute to the drink's beneficial health effects. Catechins fight free radicals (unstable molecules) and provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Epigallocationchin gallate (EGCG) , a type of catechin, can inhibit the growth of cancer cells. EGCG is involved in cellular pathways that inhibit cell growth and the release of inflammatory molecules.
Evidence for the benefits of green tea for prostate health is mixed. Several studies show the positive effects of drinking three or more cups of green tea per day to reduce the risk of prostate cancer. One cup (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) of green tea contains about 187 mg of EGCG.
Other research shows that taking 400 to 600 mg of EGCG per day reduces prostate cancer. However, research disagrees.
Daily intake of 400 mg EGCG is well tolerated and safe. Taking EGCG supplements on an empty stomach may be more effective, but may increase the risk of toxicity.
Modified citrus pectin
Modified citrus pectin (MCP) is known for its anti-cancer properties, including its ability to influence tumor growth. Pectin is a soluble, indigestible fiber found in plant cell walls.
There is little research on CAM for prostate health, but this research is promising. Long-term use of MCP can slow the progression of prostate cancer. MCP blocks the activity of a specific molecule (galectin-3 protein) that contributes to the development of cancer.
MCP is generally considered safe by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is tolerated by most people. However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage for prostate health.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is important for many processes in the body.
Vitamin D can reduce circulating levels of sex hormones (androgens) and prostate specific antigen (PSA) and inhibit cell growth to support prostate health and reduce the risk of prostate cancer. PSA is a blood test that can be used to determine a person's risk of developing prostate cancer.
There is mixed evidence that vitamin D supplementation improves prostate health. Several studies show that vitamin D supplementation increases PSA levels. However, other studies have shown no benefit of vitamin D compared with a placebo (an inactive substance given to people in a control group).
High vitamin D intake may be associated with lower BPH levels. Vitamin D can reduce inflammation and prevent prostate enlargement, two hallmarks of BPH.
The recommended daily dose of vitamin D for men aged 18 to 70 years is 15 mcg or 600 international units (IU) per day. For men over 70 years of age, the recommended daily dose is 20 mcg or 800 IU.
Excessive vitamin D supplementation is toxic. High vitamin D intake contributes to high calcium levels (hypercalcemia), which in severe cases can lead to kidney failure. In addition, several studies show that vitamin D supplementation can increase mortality in men with prostate cancer.
Vitamin D may interact in the following ways:
Vitamin D supplements: Vitamin D supplements can interact with certain medications, and some medications can interfere with the absorption of vitamin D. Drugs that interact with vitamin D include:
Statins: Vitamin D can reduce the effectiveness of statins, and statins can interfere with the body's production of vitamin D.
Corticosteroid drugs: These drugs can affect vitamin D metabolism.
Thiazide diuretics: Concomitant use of thiazide diuretics and vitamin D supplements may cause hypercalcemia.
Orlistat: Drugs that affect fat metabolism, such as Alli (orlistat), reduce vitamin D absorption.
soya bean
Soy foods such as tofu, miso, and soy milk contain phytochemicals that are beneficial for health. In particular, the isoflavones (a type of phytochemical) found in soy foods support prostate health.
Soy has no effect on male reproductive hormones and does not affect fertility. In fact, consuming soy foods has been linked to reduced rates of prostate cancer. In particular, unfermented soy foods such as tofu, soy milk, and edamame significantly reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
Research shows mixed results regarding the use of soy isoflavone supplements . Isoflavone supplements may provide similar results to consuming soy foods, but more research is needed. Additionally, some studies looking at soy isoflavone supplements included other ingredients, so the results may not be due to the isoflavones.
Taking isoflavone supplements can cause side effects. Additionally, evidence that isoflavone supplements improve prostate health is scant and unproven. Instead, choose soy foods that are promoted as part of a healthy diet and have minimal side effects.
Herbs for Prostate Health
Many herbs are marketed for prostate health, but it is unclear whether these supplements actually improve prostate health.
Dwarf palm
Saw palmetto is an herbal plant that treats diseases of the male and female reproductive organs.
Several studies show that saw palmetto can reduce urinary symptoms such as leaking urine (incontinence) and increase urinary urgency and frequency of urination. Additionally, saw palmetto can relieve prostatitis.
Other research shows no benefit of saw palmetto for BPH symptoms. However, the benefits and side effects of saw palmetto may depend on the quality and composition of the supplement.
Saw palmetto is generally well tolerated, with mild side effects such as digestive problems or headaches. There are no clear interactions between the drug and saw palmetto.
African Cherry
According to research, the bark of the African cherry tree ( Prunus africana ), also known as African plum or African plum, reduces symptoms associated with BPH. African cherry tree bark contains phytosterols , which help reduce inflammation.
The most common dose of African cherry is 100 to 200 mg per day for one to two months. However, more research is needed to determine optimal dosage, safety and possible drug interactions.
Rye grass pollen extract
There is little research available on ryegrass (Cernilton) pollen extract. However, existing research shows the benefits for prostate health are varied.
Rai grass pollen extract relaxes urinary tract muscles, reduces inflammation and prevents cell growth.
Research shows that 750 milligrams of ryegrass pollen a day can relieve BPH symptoms. However, it is not clear what the appropriate dose is to support prostate health.
Translator
In the United States, the FDA does not regulate dietary supplements in the same way it regulates prescription drugs. This means that some additional product labels may not be as stated.
When choosing a dietary supplement, look for products that have been third-party tested and consult a healthcare professional, dietitian or RDN, or pharmacist.
Consider other prostate health measures
Apart from supplementation, lifestyle can also support prostate health. In everyday life, exercise and plant-based foods help maintain prostate health.
Movement/exercise
Exercise maintains prostate health through inflammation and the sympathetic nervous system.
Pelvic floor exercises can relieve symptoms of prostate enlargement, such as difficulty urinating. However, exercise should not replace urethral function problems or BPH treatment.
Nutrition
Vegetarian or vegetarian diets can reduce the risk of death from prostate cancer. A large meta-analysis found a 10% reduced risk of prostate cancer in vegetarians compared with all men.
Plant-based diets are also associated with lower PSA levels. PSA is used to detect prostate problems such as infection, inflammation and prostate cancer. Cruciferous vegetables, soybeans, and tomatoes (all common foods in a plant-based diet) contribute to a lower risk of prostate cancer.
Demonstration
Regular appointments with a healthcare provider improve prostate health. Problems that affect the capacity of the urinary tract can be a symptom of prostate problems. If you experience urine leakage, pelvic tension, or frequent urination at night, contact your doctor.
A physical examination where the doctor inserts a finger (digital rectal examination) helps determine the condition of the prostate. However, it is not recommended as a prostate cancer screening tool.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) separately recommends PSA testing for prostate cancer in men between the ages of 55 and 69.
Hydrate
Reducing the amount of fluid you drink before bed can help relieve the symptoms of prostate enlargement, as can frequent urination (nacaturia) at night. However, consult your doctor before adjusting your fluid intake.
Summary
Dietary supplements may support prostate health. However, supplements require more robust data before being fully recommended. Although some supplements can reduce the risk of prostate cancer, they cannot prevent prostate cancer or other problems.
In some cases, supplements do more harm than good. Always consult a doctor before starting any dietary supplement.
In general
Is prostate a supplement?
Some studies suggest that additional prostate supplementation may reduce the risk of cancer or relieve symptoms associated with BPH. However, the evidence is mixed. In clinical trials, supplements were used in different doses and for different time periods, making it difficult to determine which prostate supplement is best for you.
In addition, baseline values may influence the effectiveness of prostate preparations, for example. B. nutritional conditions and dosage and form of food supplements.
What supplements are best for prostate health?
There is no one-size-fits-all supplement for prostate health. Depending on your health history and symptoms, nutritional supplements may be beneficial for your prostate health. However, always consult your doctor before starting any nutritional supplement.
Should You Take Supplements for Prostate Health?
Prostate health supplements may not be necessary. Instead, focusing on foods rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants can help.
Read the “Excellent Health” editorial.