Natural treatments are increasingly sought out to complement conventional medical treatment for a range of illnesses and diseases, including prostate cancer. Using natural therapies in conjunction with medical treatment plans for prostate cancer not only reduces the risk of cancer but also improves prostate health and the quality of life for men who have been diagnosed with the condition. Many natural remedies have been approved for use in the treatment of prostate cancer by several medical establishments. Ensure you advise your doctor if you are considering using natural therapies to complement your prostate cancer treatment plan.
What is the Prostate Gland?
The prostate is a small gland that is an integral part of the male reproductive system. It surrounds the urethra and is situated between the penis and bladder and is responsible for producing a fluid which is one of the primary components of semen. The gland is susceptible to becoming enlarged, particularly in more mature males where a reduction in testosterone is thought to be a trigger. This is also when prostate cancer becomes a factor.
What is Prostate Cancer?
Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer found in men and the third leading cause of cancer death in Australia, according to the Cancer Council. It occurs when the prostate cells grow out of control and affect the functions of the prostate gland. People with high levels of prostate specific antigen (PSA), a type of protein produced by benign and cancerous prostate cells, are believed to have an increased risk of prostate cancer. This medical condition has few or ambiguous symptoms, which makes early diagnosis difficult. It includes the following:
- Blood present in the urine
- Trouble urinating
- A constant need to urinate
- Pain when ejaculation occurs
The most common way to diagnose the presence of prostate cancer is via a rectal examination or blood test. Further tests may involve a biopsy, ultrasound scan or bone scan.
What Natural Treatments Can Address Prostate Cancer?
Several studies have shown that common prostate cancer treatments not only come with a plethora of side effects but also increase one's chances of developing a host of other ailments. Androgen deprivation therapy increases the risk of heart disease as taking anti - androgens affects how the heart beats. Research shows that this type of therapy for metastatic prostate cancer slows down the heart's ability to recharge between beats, which can lead to sudden death.
Prostate surgery, particularly radical prostatectomy, is a treatment option which men with localized prostate cancer take to prevent complications like bone metastases. Unfortunately, it can cause impotence, urinary tract infection or infertility as the seminal vesicles are removed along with the prostate gland and its surrounding tissues.
External beam radiation therapy is the most common type of radiation therapy that can kill cancerous prostate cells and reduce the risk of prostate cancer recurrence. However, the procedure inadvertently kills the healthy cells the beam comes in contact with as well, hence causing a slew of side effects, including frequent and painful urination, fatigue, and metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer, a condition wherein the cancer has spread beyond the prostate gland. It also increases the risk for colon cancer.
Bone-modifying drugs are administered to patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, a condition in which the cancer cells have spread to the bones and don't respond to hormonal therapy. Prolonged use of these drugs often lead to ischemic bone necrosis and dental problems.
There are many different natural remedies that may help in managing prostate cancer and helping aid recovery. Besides promising a host of health benefits, these natural treatments can increase life expectancies.
Acupuncture for Prostate Cancer
Acupuncture is typically used to treat many forms of cancer, including prostate cancer and can provide therapeutic relief for those who have contracted the disease and are suffering significant amounts of pain.
Herbal Medicine for Prostate Cancer
In herbal medicine, saw palmetto and pygeum are two herbal remedies that have been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of enlarged prostate, and compare favourably with medically prescribed drugs in terms of their effectiveness.
Massage for Prostate Cancer
Massage has been demonstrated to significantly reduce tension and increase circulation, thus offering cancer patients in particular, therapeutic relief from pain while helping to relieve pressure in the groin area. There are a number of different types or styles of massage, including oncology massage, with each offering particular and subtle benefits.
Nutrition for Prostate Cancer
Maintaining good nutrition and a balanced diet that is low in fatty foods and high in vegetables will slow down the growth of cancer cells in the prostate gland. Soy products contain the chemical compound isoflavones that can help decrease testosterone levels and the risk for prostate cancer. Lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes, and selenium are two elements that are also worth adding to your meals as these have been found to be beneficial in reducing the likelihood of cancer progressing. Other foods that can prevent cancer cells and advanced prostate cancer are cruciferous vegetables like spinach, kale and broccoli. Consuming high amounts of dairy products is discouraged by health experts.
Exercise for Prostate Cancer
A study in the Harvard Health Publishing shows that engaging in regular exercise or any physical activity helps in lowering the levels of prostate specific antigen. High PSA levels can be an indication of prostate cancer, so swimming, cycling and aerobic exercise can help bring them down.
Ayurveda for Prostate Cancer
A clinical study done by the Divyajot Ayurvedic Research Foundation in India, involving more than 500 prostate cancer patients, showed that over 65% of patients saw a massive improvement in their condition after receiving Ayurvedic medicine. Ayurveda involves bowel cleansing with herbal treatments, a healthy diet, yoga therapy and massage.
Dietary Supplements for Prostate Cancer
Taking calcium and vitamin D supplements can help patients receiving hormone therapy, a type of treatment for prostate cancer that causes bone thinning, which may eventually lead to bone fractures. Hot flashes are another common side effect of this treatment option, which herbal supplements like chamomile tea can help with. Chamomile tea contains antioxidants that can combat cancer cells.
Weight Loss for Prostate Cancer
Obesity has a direct link to prostate cancer, so sticking to a healthy weight outweighs laparoscopic surgery or any other type of surgery when it comes to fighting prostate cancer. Cutting out sugar and fats from your diet in addition to exercising daily is key to preventing prostate cancer progression. Working with a weight loss specialist will help you come up with a treatment plan which leads to your ideal weight.
A healthcare professional who specialises in natural treatments for prostate cancer can help you steer clear of the condition. Although medical experts have made it clear that older men are at risk of prostate cancer, there are healthy foods, activities and remedies that you can integrate into your life to either prevent the development of the disease or slow down its progression. Check the full listing of natural health practitioners on the Natural Therapy Pages to find someone in your area who can help you.
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