Prostatitis – Ask a Naturopath

Prostatitis (Prostadynia) is a male urological problem which is characterised by infection of the prostate gland resulting in inflammation, discomfort, urinary pain, nocturia (night time urination), reduced urinary output, lower back pain, impotence, painful ejaculation and urinary frequency.

Prostatitis may present as an acute or chronic problem and if it is appropriately addressed the complications can be minimal, however if left can result in further ill health and complications.

COMMON CAUSES OF PROSTATITIS

Elevated Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)
Staphylococcus infecton
Bacterial or viral infection
E. coli
Sexually transmitted infections such as Chlamydia

DIET ADVICE FOR PROSTATE HEALTH

Reduce acidic foods in the diet and increase alkaline foods
Begin the day with a glass of warm water with lemon juice squeezed into it. Lemon juice changes the pH of the blood and urinary tract so that opportunistic bacteria is not able to proliferate
Reduce saturated fatty acids, alcohol, yeast, dairy and sugar consumption as these place an extra burden on the immune system
Eat plenty of foods high in anti-oxidants such as blueberries, grapes and cranberries
Alkalise the blood: vegetable juices, barley grass, lemon juice, miso soup and plenty of water
Drink at least 2 litres of filtered water daily to encourage elimination of wastes including detrimental bacteria from the urogentiary system

LIFESTYLE ADVICE FOR PROSTATE HEALTH

Sitz baths promote circulation to the urogenitary system and reproductive organs
In Chinese Medicine it is recommended to support Kidney function as it underpins healthy reproductive energy and vitality
Reduce alcohol, recreational drugs and stress as these reduce Kidney function and reproductive health
Address any underlying causes of prostatitis – bacterial infection, Kidney deficiency, inflammation or sexually transmitted diseases

NATURAL REMEDIES FOR PROSTATE HEALTH

Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory herbs such as Garlic, Golden Seal, Marshmallow, Echinacea, Andrographis and Licorice
Herbal supplements for the general health of the prostate gland include Pygeum, Saw Palmetto, Horsetail, Uva Ursi and Epilobium
Probiotic will help to ensure healthy immune system bacteria and reduce the chances of a weakened immune system
Quercetin, Vitamin c and bioflavinoids help to rebuild the immune system, decrease inflammation and address infections
Zinc supplementation is an important mineral for the health of the immune sysetm, it is also a powerful anti-oxidant for male reproductive health
Increase your antioxidant status by increasing foods which contain Vitamins A, C, E, Zinc, Betacarotene and Selenium, or take a supplement which contains these nutrients
Homeopathic prescribing to address prostatitis recommend the following remedies – Thuja, Nux Vomica, Arnica, Sabel Serrolata or Pulsatilla
Cranberry juice is also another fluid intake good for the bladder and can help in cleansing it from bacteria