Life Begins At...

The Retiree Spring 2011

Life Begins At.....

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BANNER BANNER Prostate Health Play your cards right with these simple tips Prostate health can be a bit of a delicate subject for many men but there are plenty of simple steps to take that don't mean drastic dietary or major lifestyle changes. 7 Simple Tips Tip #1 Drink up! Drink more water and less caffeine. Water is such a major body component and facilitates many biochemical processes. A dehydrated body predisposes to urinary tract infections that can lead to prostate problems. Prostate Woes There are several disorders that can affect the prostate. Infl ammation of the prostate gland is usually caused by bacteria and requires immediate medical care. More common is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that restricts the fl ow of urine from the bladder. Because of the position of the prostate, situated just behind the urethra, symptoms can include: frequent urination, urgency, leaking or dribbling and a hesitant, interrupted or weak urine stream. One of the most annoying symptoms is nocturia (urination at the nighttime). BPH symptoms can affect intimacy, sleeping habits and urine fl ow. BPH is the most common disorder of the prostate gland and is the most common diagnosis by urologists for male patients age 45-74. An estimated 60 per cent of men over age 60 have BPH. Tip #2 Use it or lose it! Some studies indicate that regular ejaculation reduces the risk of prostate complications, so enjoy regular sexual activity with a loved one – or solo! Tip #3 Herbal heroes. The herbal duo Pygeum and Saw Palmetto are an absolute must when looking at natural prostate treatments. Pygeum has anti-infl ammatory properties and Saw Palmetto is rich in phytosterols and fatty acids – these herbs have been the subject of studies which have shown each capable of reducing the uncomfortable urinary symptoms associated with BPH. Tip #4 The humble tomato. Tomatoes are a concentrated food source of lycopene – in one study researchers found those who ate tomato paste decreased their PSA levels by nearly 11 per cent. Tip #5 Zinc to the max. Increasing dietary intake of zinc or taking a zinc supplement is an excellent support for the prostate gland. A simple way to do this with the diet is eating more pumpkin seeds. Pumpkin seeds contain zinc and phytosterols that help protect the prostate. Tip # 6 Get active. Doctors recommend regular gentle exercise such as a brisk walk for 30 minutes every day, fi ve days a week Tip # 7 Tight squeeze. Kegel exercises for the prostate gland strategically work to increase muscle tone in this area. And as always, one of the best approaches to all health issues is a great attitude. Your mind is one of your most powerful health tools. The way you think can create stress or peace. So choose positive, uplifting thoughts and aim to enjoy each moment of every day. THE RETIREE SPRING 173

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