Month: September 2021

There is a condition that is very common to men as they age, commonly known as BPH. Since this is a fact of aging life, it is good to understand what is BPH about.

What is BPH?

BPH stands for Benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is also called prostate gland enlargement, which is a prevalent condition as men get older. An enlarged prostate gland can cause difficult urinary symptoms, for example blocking the flow of urine out of the bladder. It can additionally trigger bladder, urinary tract, or kidney problems.

The prostate gland functions within the male reproductive system. It is located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum and surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder.

The prostate’s main function is to generate the fluid(seminal fluid) that nurtures and moves sperm. For more information on the prostate gland, please see the article, All about the Prostate, on this website.

Enlarged prostate is a widespread circumstance. It affects an estimated 50% of men over age 50.

What is the Cause of BPH?

The cause of prostate enlargement is not known. However, it is believed to be related to hormonal changes as men age. The balance of hormones in the body changes as we get older, and in men, this may cause the prostate gland to grow.

Men produce both testosterone, a male hormone, and small amounts of estrogen, a female hormone, throughout their lives. As men age, the amount of active testosterone in the blood decreases, leaving a higher share of estrogen. Studies have recommended that BPH may occur due to the higher share of estrogen in the prostate contributes to the activity of substances that initiate prostate cells to grow.

Another hypothesis points to dihydrotestosterone
(DHT), a male hormone that contributes to prostate development and growth. Some research has shown that even when testosterone levels in the blood start to decrease, high levels of DHT continue to build up in the prostate. This scenario may allow prostate cells to keep on growing. Scientists have noted that men who do not generate DHT do not acquire BPH.

Diet is another underlying factor linking to BPH. For example, fats trigger the increased formation of testosterone and additional hormones.

What is BPH Symptoms?

When the prostate has become enlarged, it can disturb or even block the bladder. Requiring to urinate frequently is a general symptom of BPH. This timing might be every 1 to 2 hours, primarily at night.

Additional symptoms include:

• Bladder not emptying completely after urinating
• Urgency to urinate
• A weakened flow of urine
• Requiring to stop and begin urinating several times
• Delayed starting to urinate
• Difficulty initiating to urinate
• Requiring to push or strain to urinate

If BPH becomes severe, an individual may not be able to urinate at all. This situation is an emergency that requires treatment immediately.

Who is at Risk for BPH?

The main risks for BPH are increased age and a family history of BPH. Additionally, lack of exercise, obesity, and erectile dysfunction can also increase the risk.

Treating BPH

Since there is no cure for BPH, the treatment mainly focuses on reducing the symptoms. Therefore, the therapy is based on how severe the symptoms are, how much they affect the patient, and if there are any complications.

Medications

There are several treatment options for BPH. One option available is to take alpha-blockers such as terazosin
(Hytrin) or tamsulosin
(Flomax) to aid in relaxing the prostate and bladder muscles. There is also Alfuzosin HCL ER (Uroxatral).

Other drugs available include dutasteride (Avodart) or finasteride (Proscar). These drugs represent a different type of medication for reducing BPH symptoms. These operate by blocking the hormones that trigger the prostate to grow.

A physician may also recommend combinations of these two different types of medications. A physician may also recommend surgery to remove the extra prostate tissue. One standard surgical method for BPH is transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).

Treating BPH Naturally

There are additional natural therapies that may work to combat BPH symptoms. Conversely, the confirmation on whether these treatments essentially work is debatable. The American Urological Association presently does not propose any herbal therapy for treating BPH.

Individuals who desire to try any of the natural remedies mentioned below should consult their doctor first since some herbal treatments can interact with prescription medications. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not control the value or integrity of herbal supplements. What this means is there can be short of consistent ingredients.

Saw palmetto – Saw palmetto is an herbal remedy that derives from the fruit of a kind of palm tree. It has been used in alternative medicine for centuries to mitigate urinary symptoms, together with those produced by BPH. As per the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a few small-scale studies have suggested that saw palmetto might effectively relieve BPH symptoms.

However, the NIH states that when more extensive studies were performed, it was discovered that saw palmetto was not any more efficient than a placebo. However, research carries on looking into the anti-inflammatory and hormone-blocking properties that saw palmetto might have and its likely use in correlation with other medications. Saw palmetto is trustworthy to use, but small side effects can be upset stomach and headache.

Beta-sitosterol – This herbal medication is a combination derived from different plants that contain cholesterol-like substances called sitosterols or phytosterols (plant-based fats). Several studies have recommended that beta-sitosterol can mitigate the urinary symptoms of BPH, including the strength of urine flow. Additionally, some scientists have suggested that these fatty substances, such as beta-sitosterol, which is found in saw palmetto also, are actually doing the work.

There haven’t been any significant side effects conveyed with the utilization of beta-sitosterol. On the other hand, physicians even now do not know all the long-term effects of this natural therapy.

Pygeum – Pygeum is derived from the bark of the African plum tree and has been utilized in conventional medicine to care for urinary problems since ancient times. It is frequently used to treat BPH symptoms, particularly in Europe. Since studies on Pygeum have not been well-designed, it isn’t easy to determine whether it is effective with certainty.

According to the Canadian Journal of Urology, some small studies have recommended that the supplement can assist with bladder emptying and urine flow. Alternatively, the studies reviewed were lacking consistency. However, Pygeum does appear safe to use, but it may cause headache and upset stomach in some individuals who use it. There are no studies on long-term safety.

Stinging nettle – It is called stinging nettle because the hairs on its leaves can cause severe pain. However, stinging nettle can have some benefits when used as a medicine.

Nettle root is considered to improve a few BPH symptoms and is generally used in Europe. However, a 2007 review concluded that more studies were needed. Currently, there’s no solid scientific evidence to suggest that it’s more effective than no treatment at all.

Sometimes nettle is used in union with other natural BPH treatments, for example, Pygeum or Saw Palmetto. Side effects from nettle are generally mild, including upset stomach and skin rash.

Foods – The effectiveness of diet in the prevention of BPH as well as treating its symptoms continues to be explored.

A recent four-year study in China observed the effects of diet on BPH symptoms. Researchers discovered that men with diets excessive in fruits and vegetables — especially leafy, dark vegetables and tomatoes, had less BPH, fewer symptoms of BPH, and were not likely to have deterioration of their BPH condition. However, the researchers reason that it is not only one nutrient but, more accurately, the combinations found in a healthful diet and lifestyle that are beneficial.

It’s important to note that a supplement is labeled natural does not necessarily mean that it is safe, healthy, or effective. Again, the FDA does not regulate herbal remedies as it does with prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Therefore no one can be entirely certain that what is listed on the label is contained inside the bottle. For this reason, it is essential to obtain supplements from a reputable company.

Additionally, herbal therapies can also cause side effects as well as interact with other medications one might consume. Therefore, a patient should consult with their doctor before trying any natural supplement.

Conclusion

BPH can lead to severe complications if not treated, such as a sudden inability to urinate (urinary retention). An individual may need to have a tube (catheter) placed into his bladder to drain the urine. Other complications include bladder stones, bladder damage, kidney damage, and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Individuals with this condition should monitor it carefully with their physician.

Any questions, comments, concerns, or experiences to share regarding BPH are welcomed to leave them below. You will receive a response.

Good Health!!

The most universally used supplements in the world are multivitamins and multi-minerals. They have become increasingly in the past few decades. But what is the reason for this increased popularity? This article will shed light as you read all about multivitamins.

What are Multivitamins?

Multivitamins are supplements that encompass numerous varieties of vitamins and minerals, occasionally along with additional ingredients.

There is no standard for what comprises a multivitamin, so their nutrient composition varies by brand and product.

Multivitamins are additionally known as multiples, multis, or just vitamins.

They are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, chewable gummies, liquids, and powders.

Most multivitamins are to be taken once or twice per day. It is best to read the label and follow the recommended dosage instructions.

Multivitamins are available in a host of establishments: supermarkets, large discount stores, and pharmacies, as well as ONLINE.

What is Included in multivitamins?

Studies have shown that there are thirteen vitamins and about 15 minerals that are essential to health.

Many generate enzymes and hormones, boost the immune system, and keep organs and nerves performing correctly.

The body additionally requires these nutrients for maintenance, reproduction, growth, and regulating bodily processes.

Multivitamins can offer quite a few of these vitamins and minerals but in varying amounts. They can additionally contain added ingredients such as herbs, amino acids, and fatty acids.

Since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not police dietary supplements as strictly as prescription drugs, a few may contain higher or lower levels of some nutrients than stated on the label.

In addition, a few supplements can contain ingredients that can interact with medications, so it is advisable to speak with a healthcare provider before using a new supplement.

Moreover, the nutrients in multivitamins may result from natural foods or be manufactured synthetically, making it important to purchase vitamins from a reputable manufacturer.

Health Benefits of Multivitamins

There are in excess of 50 nutrients required for thousands of metabolic processes and the maintenance of optimal health. Below are a number of the key ones:

Vitamin A
– Otherwise known as retinol, vitamin A is a potent antioxidant that sustains good skin, bolsters the immune system, and nourishes vision, especially in dim light. Excellent food sources include sweet potatoes, melons, and carrots.

Therefore, Vitamin A is first-rate for healthy skin, vision, and proper growth and development.

Vitamin B
– The eight B VITAMINS assist the body in converting food into fuel, boosting energy levels, and promoting healthy concentration, memory, and brain function. They may additionally reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and low mood. Good food resources include whole grains, lean meats, and eggs.

Vitamin B is suitable for psychological wellbeing, brain function, and energy levels.

Vitamin C
– Vitamin C sustains healthy connective tissues in the joints and skin and may accelerate wound healing and reduce bruising. It additionally aids in warding off colds. Excellent food sources include strawberries, citrus fruits, red peppers, and kiwis.

This vitamin is good for skin health, antioxidant protection, and strengthening blood vessel walls.

Vitamin D – Vitamin D controls the quantity of calcium and phosphorous in the body and plays an essential role in maintaining normal bone density. It is additionally crucial for the proper performance of the nervous and immune systems. Nearly two-thirds of the UK population severely lacks vitamin D. The bulk of our vitamin D comes from the sun. At the same time, a selection of foods may contain smaller amounts, such as eggs, oily fish, and mushrooms. Vitamin D supplements are prevalent in the UK during the winter months.

This vitamin is good for healthy bones, immune function, and mood.

Vitamin E
– Vitamin E powers cell membranes and guards cells against oxidative damage from free radicals. It plays an essential role in maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune performance. Excellent food sources include almonds and sunflower seeds.

First-rate for antioxidant protection, skin health, and circulation.

Folic acid
– Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is crucial for producing healthy cells and hemoglobin. It additionally aids in maintaining standard homocysteine levels, which sustains heart and cognitive function. Folic acid is so vital that it is frequently added to cereals and flours. Additional food resources encompass dark leafy greens, asparagus, and broccoli.

Folic acid is most suitable for cell renewal, heart function, and preventing neural tube birth defects.

Calcium
– Healthy calcium levels are crucial for the growth and preservation of bones and teeth. It additionally controls muscle contractions (including the heartbeat), blood pressure, and hormone secretion. The most excellent foods resources are dairy products such as cheese and yogurt.

Most excellent for durable teeth, bones, and blood clotting.

Iron – Iron is required to produce healthy red blood cells and hemoglobin and helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to all cells in the body. It additionally supports the creation of neurotransmitters, hormones, and collagen. It is estimated that 32% of females of childbearing age (19-64) do not intake enough iron. High-quality food sources include shellfish, beans, and lentils.

Iron is good for preserving healthy blood and muscle function.

Zinc
– Zinc is a crucial building block for enzymes, proteins, and cells. It plays an essential role in maintaining a robust immune system and sustains skin health and wound healing. Zinc is additionally vital for healthy taste and smell. Excellent food sources include oysters, spinach, and dark chocolate.

Zinc is best for immunity, fertility, and skin.

Chromium – Chromium aids in determining the quantity of energy we release from food and boosts insulin sensitivity. For this reason, it can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes. Best food suppliers of chromium include whole grains, broccoli, and oats.

Excellent for blood glucose levels

Magnesium – Magnesium contributes a role in the transfer of food into energy. It additionally collaborates with calcium to sustain average muscle performance, bone density, and blood clotting. Best food sources include pumpkin seeds, spinach, and black beans.

Who Benefits from a Multivitamin?

• Athletes: individuals with a physically energetic lifestyle require more nutrients than the typical non-active person to sustain muscle recovery and any fitness-related goals. Creatine and amino acid supplements can maintain muscles during short bouts of intense exercise and aid growth and healing. Demanding activity is additionally linked with oxidative stress and tissue damage. Therefore, athletes need a higher intake of antioxidant nutrients such as vitamins C and E.

• Deficiency: Several large-scale al studies have indicated that many individuals do not accomplish nutritional adequacy through diet alone. This observation may partly be caused by declining soil quality, which means fresh fruit, and vegetables are not as nutritious as they were 70 years ago. It may additionally be clarified by the increasing dependence on convenient pre-packed meals. However, a daily multivitamin with the recommended allowance of vitamins and minerals can assist in protecting against such deficiencies.

• Pregnancy and lactation: The Department of Health advises all women who are thinking about becoming pregnant to take a daily 400mcg folic acid supplement to decrease the danger of neural tube defects and a daily vitamin D 10mcg supplement to support the growing fetus. A multivitamin high in iron, folic acid, and vitamin D is also suitable.

• Children aged six months to five years: The Department of Health additionally recommends that all children between the ages of six months to five years be given a supplement containing vitamins A, C, and D. These vitamins are essential during the early years, especially if children are finicky eaters.

• The Elderly: over the age of 65: nutritional needs change with age. This fact is partly because the stomach secretes smaller amounts of hydrochloric acid, which weakens the breakdown of food and the absorption of nutrients. Consequently, many mature adults are required to consume higher quantities of nutrients to absorb the same amount. As a result, all adults over 65 are recommended to take a daily vitamin D 10mcg supplement to maintain bone strength, while calcium, iron, vitamin C, and Coenzyme Q10 are additionally essential.

• Menopause: During and after menopause, women require a more significant consumption of certain nutrients, specifically calcium and vitamin D. This is because the loss of protective estrogen during this period accelerates bone loss. Some women also find that phytoestrogen supplements such as black cohosh help relieve common symptoms of menopause, including night sweats, hot flushes, and irritability.

• Smokers: Individuals who smoke regularly require high doses of vitamin C to maintain a steady body reserve. This antioxidant vitamin is crucial for the impeding of free radicals molecules formed by chemicals in cigarettes. Vitamin B12 is also essential, as smokers often have decreased vitamin B12 serum levels. However, it is crucial to remember that a daily multivitamin certainly does not cancel out a harmful habit. There is some evidence to suggest that smokers should steer clear of excessive degrees of beta-carotene as it can amplify the risk of lung cancer.

• Restricted diet: If an individual’s diet is restricted in any way, they may be missing certain nutrients. For instance, vegans and vegetarians are often low in B12 since this vitamin is mainly contained in meat. Even paleo or Atkins diet trends can limit this intake and may be bolstered by a daily multivitamin.

• Individuals with little exposure to natural sunlight: Vitamin D is a foundation to good health, but it is challenging to get adequate amounts from food alone. Also, during the winter months, the sun’s rays aren’t always strong enough for the skin to synthesize vitamin D. A daily 10mcg supplement can help ensure that vitamin D levels do not get too low.

Summary

We should strive to eat fruit and vegetables daily to fuel our bodies with the right food prior to taking a multivitamin. If we eat healthy and complete diets, a multivitamin may not offer much further protection. Chances are, daily intake requirements are met. On the other hand, at standard doses, it should not cause any harm either.

When eating moderately well, a multivitamin can provide some extra nutritional support. Conversely, suppose an individual’s diet is not as good as it should be and a balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables is not consumed. In that case, a multivitamin will likely be beneficial. However, it is essential to remember that we cannot out supplement a poor diet.

Should we choose to take a multivitamin for its supplemental value, in that case, it may be beneficial in fortifying the diet and protecting against nutritional deficiencies. However, if they are taken to combat chronic diseases similar to pharmaceutical drugs, disappointment is likely.

Structure and characteristics can vary from product to product. Therefore, be sure to choose a HIGH-QUALITY MULTIVITAMIN. The nutrients will be available in their most bioavailable form to increase digestion and absorption. For that reason, choose a multivitamin targeted to your age, gender, and activity levels, and always take them with a meal to increase absorption.

The best methodology is to keep physically active, consume a balanced diet with at least five (5) portions of fruits and vegetables daily, and take a multivitamin to safeguard your nutritional intake.

Questions, comments, concerns, or experiences with multivitamins are welcomed below.

Good Health!!

Some conditions occur in the body that we may not be aware of until they become critical. One of these is dehydration. It is essential to know the signs of dehydration in order to correct the situation before it becomes severe. This article will shed light on dehydration: the facts.

What is Dehydration?

Dehydration is the body not having a sufficient amount of fluid for it to function correctly. Dehydration takes place when there is a fluid deficit; the body loses more fluid than it is taking in.

What is the Cause of Dehydration?

Dehydration takes place when the body loses excessive amounts of fluid. Common causes can include:

• diarrhea
• excessive sweating
• vomiting

The recommendation for women is to consume 92 fluid ounces (11.5 cups) per day and for men to consume 124 fluid ounces (15.5 cups) per day. Individuals on the go, athletes and individuals exposed to high temperatures need to increase their water
intake to evade dehydration.

When too much water is lost from the body, the organs, cells, and tissues fail to function as they should, leading to dangerous complications. If dehydration is not corrected immediately, it may cause shock.

Dehydration may be severe or mild. Mild dehydration is usually treatable at home. However, severe dehydration needs treatment in a hospital or emergency care setting.

Sports contestants exposed to the direct sun are not the only ones susceptible to dehydration. Bodybuilders and swimmers are among the athletes who frequently develop the condition as well. It is even possible to sweat in the water! Swimmers leave behind a lot of sweat when they are swimming.

Some individuals have an increased risk for developing dehydration than others, which include:

• athletes (especially cyclists, runners, and soccer players)
• elderly adults
• individuals who reside in high altitudes
• individuals with chronic conditions
• individuals working outdoors exposed to excessive amounts of heat (e.g., construction workers, landscapers, mechanics, and welders)
• young children, and infants

The body loses water on a regular basis through sweating and urination. If the fluid is not replenished, dehydration takes place. Any condition or situation that causes the body to lose more water than usual can lead to dehydration.

Sweating

Sweating is part of the body’s normal cooling process. When the body becomes heated, the sweat glands activate to release moisture body in an attempt to cool off. The way this works is through the process of evaporation.

When a drop of sweat evaporates from the skin, it takes a small amount of heat with it. The more sweat produced, the more evaporation commences, and the more cooling takes place. Sweating additionally hydrates the skin and maintains the balance of electrolytes in the body.

The fluid in sweat encompasses mainly salt and water. Extreme sweating can cause dehydration since large amounts of water are lost. The medicinal name for extreme sweating is hyperhidrosis.

Illness

Illnesses that produce perpetual vomiting or diarrhea may result in dehydration. This condition occurs since vomiting and diarrhea can cause excessive water to be removed from the body.

Essential electrolytes are additionally lost through these processes. Electrolytes are minerals utilized by the body to manage the muscles, blood chemistry, and organ processes. These electrolytes can be found in urine, blood, and other fluids in the body.

Vomiting or diarrhea may impair these roles and cause dangerous complications, such as stroke and coma.

Fever

When an individual has a fever, the body loses fluid through the skin’s surface in an effort to lower the temperature. Frequently, fever can cause an individual to sweat to the point that if enough liquid is not consumed to replenish what is lost, they could become dehydrated.

Urination

Urination is the body’s usual way to discharge toxins from the body. A few conditions may cause chemical imbalances, which can increase urine output. If the fluid lost through excessive urination is not replaced, there is a risk of developing dehydration.

What are the Symptoms for Dehydration

The indicators of dehydration vary depending on whether the condition is mild or severe. Indications of dehydration can begin to appear prior to full dehydration commences.

Symptoms of mild to fair dehydration encompass:

• constipation
• decreased urination
• dizziness
• dry mouth
• dry skin
• fatigue
• headache
• increased thirst
• less tear production
• lightheadedness

Severe dehydration is likely to cause the following in addition to the symptoms of mild dehydration:

• dark urine
• excessive thirst
• lack of sweat production
• low blood pressure
• rapid breathing
• rapid heart rate
• shriveled skin
• sunken eyes

Severe dehydration is a serious medical emergency. An individual should seek immediate medical help if they are showing any of these signs and symptoms.

Further, the elderly, as well as children and, should receive immediate treatment, even if they are only experiencing symptoms of mild dehydration.

If an individual in any age group develops any of the following symptoms, they should seek emergency care:

• severe diarrhea
• blood in the stool
• diarrhea for three (3) or more days
• have the inability to keep fluids down
• disorientation

How is Dehydration Diagnosed?

Before commencing any tests, a physician will review any symptoms present to rule out other conditions. After noting a medical history, the physician will check the vital signs, including heart rate and blood pressure. Low blood pressure and rapid heart rate may point to dehydration.

The physician may use a blood test to check the level of electrolytes, which can help be a sign of fluid loss. A blood test can additionally check the body’s level of creatinine. This test assists the doctor in determining how well the kidneys are performing, which is an indication of the degree of dehydration.

A physician may also use a urinalysis, which is an exam that utilizes a sample of urine to check for bacteria and electrolyte loss. The color of urine can additionally indicate dehydration when considered with other symptoms. Dark urine cannot alone produce a diagnosis for dehydration.

Treating Dehydration

Treating dehydration includes rehydrating techniques, electrolyte replenishment, and the treatment of diarrhea or vomiting if necessary.

Rehydration – Rehydration by drinking may not be feasible for all individuals, such as severe diarrhea or vomiting. In this case, fluids would be given intravenously.

This function is performed by inserting a small IV tube in a vein in the arm or hand. It supplies a solution that is usually a mix of water and electrolytes.

For individuals able to drink, ingesting water along with an electrolyte-containing rehydration drink, such as a low-sugar sport or electrolyte drink (e.g., Gatorade), may be suggested. Children with dehydration are frequently advised to drink Pedialyte.

Oral Rehydration Therapy

In the event an electrolyte drink is not available, a solution can be formed using:

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Six teaspoons sugar
• 1-liter water

Be sure to use precise measurements as using more than the recommended amounts of salt or sugar can be dangerous.

Preventing Dehydration

The greatest way to avoid dehydration is to consume plenty of fluids, especially when in a hot climate or playing, exercising, or working in the sun. It is advisable to observe the amount of fluid lost through perspiration (sweating) and urination. It is best to consume enough fluids to keep up with what the body is losing.

Additionally, fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables make an ideal hydrating

snack due to their high water content of 80–99% water.

For the sake of comparison, research
has shown that highly processed foods such as crackers, cereals, cookies, and chips contain only 1–9% water.

Fruits and vegetables with the most significant water capacity include:

• berries
• cabbage
• carrots
• grapes
• lettuce
• melons
• oranges
• spinach

Keep various fresh fruits and vegetables on hand for easy and handy access.

It is important to note that frozen fruits and vegetables have the same nutritional value as their fresh counterparts, and in some cases, they are more nutritious.

Because of the amount of the time involved for fruits and vegetables to reach our homes, oxidation can cause nutrient loss. In contrast, frozen fruits and vegetables are frozen soon after harvesting, retaining most of their nutrients.

For example, one study revealed that frozen green beans and blueberries included more vitamin C than their fresh equivalents.

Summary

Since hydration supports a host of bodily functions, affecting everything from mental cognition to sex performance, we must pay attention to our hydration condition.

Please feel free to leave any questions, comments, concerns, or experiences with dehydration below.

Good Health!!