Prostate Cancer - Learn How to Prevent It From Cutting Off Your Sex Life Too Early

The knowledge that prostate cancer may be developing slowly without any signs, is the most disturbing thought to men above the age of 50. Apart from difficulties in urinating, prostate cancer may cause erectile dysfunction, or problems during sexual intercourse. As it progresses, the cancer cells may spread from the prostate to other parts of the body especially the bones and lymph nodes.

The earliest signs of prostate problems are difficulties in urinating caused by the swelling of the gland. Since the prostate encircles the urethra, the swelling acts as a clamp on the urethra reducing or even cutting off the flow of urine completely.

Causes of Prostate Cancer:

Although specific causes of the cancer have not been identified, the following are known to be the primary risk factors:-

• Age - Prostate cancer is very rare with men under 45 and becomes more common as the age advances,
• Family History - men with brothers or fathers who have had the cancer are more likely to suffer the same fate.
• High Blood Pressure - this has been seen to be a contributing factor.
• Lack of Vitamin D (the sunshine vitamin).
• Zinc deficiency.

Prevention:

Diet:

The prostate, just like any other gland, has nutritional needs which, if taken care of, will go a long way in ensuring a healthy sex life. The following products have been found to be very effective:-

• Saw Palmetto - this herb is available as a food supplement. It is used not only for preventive purposes, but it is also very effective in controlling prostate symptoms. Use a supplement that contains 45% fatty acids; 80 mgs a day for prevention or 160 mgs twice a day to control symptoms if you have already been diagnosed with the cancer.
• Pumpkin seeds - very rich in zinc.
• Raw nuts - they contain healthy essential fats; eat plenty of them.
• Oily fish - mackerel, salmon, trout, herring and sardines.
• Zinc supplement (if you are not getting enough from food). A word of caution with zinc. Zinc can reduce copper levels in our bodies. So if you take zinc supplement you should also take a copper supplement. Get professional advice.
• Extra virgin olive oil,
• Omega 3 fatty acids,
• Soy foods and tomatoes,
• Vegetables (eg cauliflower & broccoli), fruits.,
• Vitamins B6 and E.
• Eat LESS red meats and dairy products.

Lifestyle:

• Physical exercise - avoid sedentary life.
• Sexual activity - more frequent ejaculations reduce prostate cancer risks.

Treatment:

When cancer has been diagnosed, the selection of treatment options may be a complex decision involving many factors. A lot will depend on the stage of the disease, the man's age, his general health and his feelings about potential treatment and the possible side-effects. Side-effects may include erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence.

Treatment for prostate cancer may involve surgical removal of the gland, radiation therapy, oral chemotherapeutic drugs or some combination. Nutrition will be an important factor too.

Let's all adapt  the best lifestyle to ensure a long and healthy sexual life.

Franc.