If you find yourself waking up a lot at night to go to the bathroom, you are not alone. This is something experienced by a lot of men over 45 years of age. This problem is usually caused by the prostate gland. Fortunately, men with this problem have long enjoyed the benefits of Ayurveda, a system of medicine from India. In this article we will discuss why this happens, what modern science has to say about it, and how ayurvedic supplements for prostate health can help.
Why Do Men Pee Frequently at Night (Nocturia)?
When men have to get up at night multiple times to urinate, it is called nocturia. The problem is a big prostate gland, which is underneath the bladder. The prostate enlarges and begins to squeeze the urethra, which should be carrying urine out of the body. This tightening narrows the urethra and the bladder does not empty well. So even if there is a little urine in the bladder, the bladder sends signals to the brain that it needs to be emptied.
This condition is called prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is one of the most common diseases affecting men throughout the world. Studies show that almost 50% of men over the age of 50 and 80% of men over the age of 80 have this disease.
What Happens to the Prostate Gland?
The prostate gland has been studied scientifically for a long time. One of the best studies measured the size of men's prostates from age 20 until death. The results indicate that the prostate increases rapidly in size in the age group 31-50, and then slows down considerably and no longer increases in size when men are in their sixties and seventies.
This is a breakthrough in that men have to start thinking about their prostate health earlier than they think. If you develop symptoms such as having to urinate at night or a problem with the urine stream, it may be too late to turn the situation around.
Ayurvedic Therapy for Prostate Health
Ayurveda approaches BPH differently. In Ayurveda the prostate is considered to be a part of both urinary and reproductive system and its treatment requires comparatively less effort. Ayurveda says that prostate problems are caused by an imbalance in the Vata dosha (that which controls movement and excretion). With age there is an imbalance in Vata and this causes many health problems like an enlarged prostate, stiff joints or irregular digestion.
Ayurvedic practitioners manage BPH by reducing the levels of Vata and thus reducing the levels of inflammation and also the prostate tissue tone to improve the urethral sphincter muscle and relieve the load of urinary bladder. Here is the use of Ayurvedic preparations for prostate health treatment. Such supplements usually contain herbs that have been used for years in the treatment of this disorder.
The following herbal remedies are effective Natural Supplements for Prostate Diseases:
Ayurveda recommends best Static and Liquid formulations made out of these herbs. Gokshura is a main ingredient of many essential Static as well as Liquid medicines to treat prostate enlargement. Gokshura works by relaxing the muscles of bladder and prostate and thus helps in overcoming urinary difficulties. Varuna is another herb that is useful in reducing the size of the prostate as well as improving the flow of urine. Another herb, Punarnava is also believed to play significant role in treating prostate enlargement. Kanchnaar Guggul is also another popular ayurvedic remedy for prostate enlargement.
All these herbs can be combined into some useful formulations.
Ayurvedic Testosterone Boosters
Testosterone levels naturally decline as men age. This can lead to a number of changes to the body such as decrease in muscle mass and density in bones, and libido. It can also cause the prostate to become enlarged because when the testosterone levels drop, the prostate gland produces more fluid.
Ayurvedic testosterone boosters will help to increase the testosterone levels in the body and will reduce the effect of aging. However it is important to note that these are not prostate health supplements. They do help in raising testosterone but may also lead to stimulation of the prostate gland which is the opposite of what one wishes to have when suffering from BPH.
Best Ayurvedic Supplements for Prostate
Choosing ayurvedic supplements for prostate health is a different matter. It is an individual choice. Always choose a supplement with an effective combination of herbs traditionally known for their effect on BPH like Gokshura, Varuna, Punarnava and Kanchnaar guggul. Also, one must ensure that the supplement is produced according to the correct guidelines.
Supplements for prostate health are very useful but they are not the only way to ensure you have a healthy prostate. Lifestyle changes can help your prostate too. A good tip to reduce urinating at night is to reduce drinking fluids in the hours before going to bed. It may also help to cut out alcohol and drinks containing caffeine in the evening as these can irritate the bladder and stimulate urine production.
Prostate health is important and a healthy diet is vital. Eat plenty of seeds such as sesame and pumpkin seeds, some of the plants known to improve prostate health. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Do not eat processed foods. On top of that make sure you get enough exercise.
When Can a Doctor be Consulted?
Prostate can be treated with Ayurvedic herbs but be aware that it is not a substitute for proper medical treatment. Moreover, if you have symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), then you need to see your doctor so as to get diagnosed and prescribed adequate treatment. If you notice blood in your urine or semen, problems with urination, inability to complete urination, weight loss or fatigue then seek medical help from a professional.
The Ayurvedic supplements along with some lifestyle changes can treat benign prostatic hyperplasia optimally. However, you should always check with your physician or other health care professional before beginning any medication or other treatment.
DISCLAIMER: This article is for educational purposes only and is not to be substituted for professional medical advice or opinion. Any questions or concerns regarding your health should be directed to your health care provider.
