The cause of prostate enlargement is unknown, but it's believed to be linked to hormonal changes as a man gets older.
According to the NHS, the balance of hormones in your body changes as you age and this may cause your prostate gland to grow.
The Urology Care Foundation has found that around 90% of men aged between 50 and 60 years suffer from an enlarged prostate.
Alongside having an enlarged prostate, suffering with a lower urinary tract is also evident.
These include symptoms such as increased peeing, a sudden urgency to urinate and having a weak stream, and is known to reduce overall quality of life including disrupting sleep.
But new research has revealed a powerful supplement to help with increasing problem.
An international panel of seven leading urologists from North America and Europe reviewed over 50 original clinical research studies and developed seven consensus statements.
This was published in the journal Uro and outlined in their paper “Rethinking the Role of Saw Palmetto Extract for Men with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in North America”.
The experts concluded that a high-quality saw palmetto extract, also known as lipidosterolic extract of Serenoa, should be considered as an option for men with mild-to-moderate lower urinary tract symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate.
“Across the globe, there has been a lack of consensus with regards to the effectiveness of saw palmetto extract resulting in differing recommendations by health organisations around the world,” said Dr Jamin Brahmbhatt, one of the co-authors and board-certified urologist.
“The goal of this expert panel was to contribute to our collective understanding of the science and generate discussion about the role a high-quality saw palmetto extract can play in men’s health.”
What is saw palmetto?
Saw palmetto is a shrublike palm that has been used for centuries for a variety of conditions, including disorders of the male and female reproductive organs and coughs due to various diseases
It is promoted as a dietary supplement for urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate gland, as well as for chronic pelvic pain, migraine, hair loss, and other conditions.
Alongside improving prostate health, saw palmetto has been shown to naturally boost testosterone levels.
What is benign prostate hyperplasia?
The supplement has been previously studied for its effectiveness for benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH).
BPH is a condition which causes an enlargement of the prostate glands which results in decreased urine flow.
One 12-week study found that men who took 1,000 mg daily of saw palmetto oil showed significant improvements in BPH symptoms compared to those who didn’t.
Another study among 354 men found that taking 320mg of saw palmetto decreased symptoms of BPH and improved urinary flow, quality of life and sexual function compared with a placebo.
Urinary tract symptoms can have several causes, including conditions such as prostate cancer that need prompt treatment.
If you’re having problems with peeing, it’s important to tell your health care provider.
Its strongly advised to speak to your healthcare professional before embarking on new supplements.
Saw palmetto is, however, generally considered safe and has been associated with very few side effects.
