by Kripa Watts

The prostate is a small gland which plays a vital role in the health of the male reproductive system.  Its function is to store and secrete a milky white fluid that helps to protect and lengthen the lifespan of the sperm.  The Quality of Life for those challenged by prostate function is greatly diminished. Frequent urination and inability to control bladder function can cause undue physical and emotional stress.

As men age, maintaining the normal function of the prostate gland often becomes an important focus of the total health maintenance program.  As with all health issues, prevention is better than cure and there are many lifestyle and dietary choices that can help to maintain a healthy functioning prostate into later life.  Maintaining balanced male hormones including testosterone, prolactin and estrodiol plays a central role in keeping the prostate in a state of vital health.

Following are some natural nutrients and foods that can be used to help maintain the prostate’s normal healthy function:

• The three amino acids, L-Glutamic acid, L-Alanine, glycine are naturally found in a healthy prostate.  Supplementation with these amino acids helps to nourish and support the healthy functioning of the prostate gland.*
• Zinc - The prostate contains higher levels of zinc than any other organ. Supplemental zinc is a key component of a nutritional program designed to support the health of the prostate.*
• Foods which are naturally rich in zinc such as pumpkin seeds. Pumpkin seed also contain important Omega –3 fatty acids and phyto-sterols that support  prostate health.*
• Saw palmetto is a gentle diuretic and endocrine agent whose action strengthens and tones the male reproductive system.*
• Nettle root – supports healthy inflammatory response.  It is a highly nutritious tonic herb rich in chlorophyll, indoles, vitamin C, minerals such as potassium, iron, trace minerals, silica, and acetylcholine.*
• Pygeum is an evergreen tree, the bark of which has been used traditionally in Africa for centuries to maintain healthy functioning of the prostate gland.
• Marshmallow root is a soothing herb that helps to maintain healthy inflammatory response in the genito-urinary tract.*
• Cranberries have powerful antioxidant activity and protective properties. Cranberry supports the urinary tract and reduces the chance of bladder infection.*
• Phytonutrient rich foods such as broccoli have immune supportive properties and tomatoes which are rich in the flavonoid, lycopene have shown to support prostate health.*

It is never too early include herbs, nutrients and whole foods in your daily diet that will help support the health of your prostate into your later years of life.

To learn more about which supplements MegaFood offer to support the overall health of men and the prostate gland click here!

REFERENCES:

Hobbs, Christopher, Brown, Stephen. Saw Palmetto. Loveland, CO: Interweave Press © 1997

Hoffmann, David. Medical Herbalism. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press ©2003

Green, James. The Male Herbal. Freedom, CA: The Crossing Press © 1991

* This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

by Kripa Watts

As a nutritional consultant I often get asked, “I looked at your web site and I’m really confused about which products to take.  What should I do?”  Generally I will respond by asking the person what they are hoping to accomplish by taking a supplement.  The answer from many is that they simply want to feel energized, be sure that their immune system is getting what it needs to function well and generally support overall well-being.

Of course there are many factors to consider when designing a supplement program, but, if you are looking for a convenient, budget healthy option one of the simplest first steps is to commit to taking a daily multi-vitamin and mineral supplement.  Most companies offer choices that make your job of choosing easy if you ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do you want to take 1 tablet per day or are you okay with multiple tablets?  With MegaFood whole food supplements more tablets means more concentrated food.  One daily formulations will give you a moderate potency of a broad range of nutrients. If you are ok with formulas that require say 3-6 tablets you’ll get a higher dose of certain nutrients, especially some of the larger minerals like calcium and magnesium.
2. Do you want a formulation with or without herbs?  Generally herbs and botanicals are what differentiate products designed specifically for men from those designed for women.  MegaFood Men’s multi vitamins contain herbs that support healthy prostate function for example; while our Women’s formulations have botanicals that support balanced hormone function.

If you prefer to have a product without herbs look for those which are simply concentrated whole                    foods such as One Daily or Optimum Foods

1. Easy question – how old are you?  Many formulas are age specific.  MegaFood offers formulations appropriate for Children, Teen’s, Adults under the age of 40 and those Over 40.

1. Have you chosen or been told to avoid certain specific nutrients?  Many customers prefer a supplement without iron – in this case Iron Free One Daily would be the best option.  Certain medications require limiting or avoidance of other vitamins or minerals such as Iodine, Vitamin K and Vitamin E.  If you have been told to limit these specific nutrients an excellent option would be to choose a tailor made formula such as Medi-Safe.

The simple act of taking a quality whole food multi-vitamin will ensure that your body gets a daily dose of concentrated nutrients.  In fact you will receive, not only those vitamins and minerals with which most of us are familiar, but a vast array of micro-nutrients such as flavonoids, amino acids, glutathione and beta-glucans to name a few.  It’s an easy and inexpensive step toward good health that will support your goals of sustained energy, healthy immunity and overall well-being.  Let us know about your experience with multi-vitamins and don’t hesitate to let us know if you have questions.