Author: Kate Scott, DipNut, mBANT, rCNHC, mIFM

DNApal co-founder | Nutrition & genetics specialist | BANT registered nutritionist

If you haven’t already, we recommend reading our first Movember blog, ‘Male Hormones and Hair Loss: How genes and lifestyle impact male health’. This will give you more context on the importance of understanding the effect of genes and lifestyle on male health.

November is all about men’s health awareness, and we at DNApal love the men in our lives. This blog digs into an important Movember theme centred around Prostate Health.

As nutritionists, we can only advise on how to keep your prostate healthy. Please regularly consult with your GP or specialist for more advice and support.

Around your 50s, many men experience enlargement of the prostate gland, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The prostate gland is located beneath the bladder and encloses the tube that transports urine from the bladder through to the penis. When the prostate becomes enlarged, it causes difficulty with urination (frequent need, weak stream, inability to completely empty the bladder, and frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) [a]. BPH isn’t the same as prostate cancer (PC) and doesn’t appear to increase the risk of developing PC [b].

PC is one of the most common types of cancer in men. Symptoms can be similar to BPH but include blood in the urine, pain and discomfort in the pelvic area, and erectile dysfunction [c]. We’d strongly advise visiting your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

Genetics:

Remember the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) involved in male-pattern hair loss? Well, DHT also plays a role in prostate enlargement [d]. The prostate cells contain androgen receptors (ARs) which bind with the male hormones – testosterone and DHT and allow these hormones to do their job. DHT binds strongly to ARs, making its action very potent. Genetic variants in the AR gene lead to high receptor activity. This, along with high DHT levels, creates a strong hormonal environment that can drive both hair loss on the scalp and enlargement of the prostate gland.

Epigenetics:

As we discussed in the previous blog, several diet, lifestyle and health factors can either increase or decrease the production of DHT. Take a look at that blog for a list of both.

Additionally, a natural compound called sulforaphane, found in certain vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage, reduces AR activity [e].

Another compound called lycopene, an antioxidant found in red fruit and veg, most famously tomatoes, is highly beneficial for prostate health, including reducing enlargement of the prostate gland and lowering PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels [f][g].

Many other health concerns are also influenced by both genetics and lifestyle, including fertility, mood disorders, connective tissue injuries, sleep problems, poor immune system and dementia. If you are interested in these topics, keep an eye out for future blog posts.

Order our Gold DNApal Test package today to get a full in-depth health overview and advice, male hormone health advice and a 90-minute consultation.

Bored of buying the men in your life socks or ties? ‘Tis almost the season to be purchasing pressies, so order today.

Feel free to leave us a comment if you have any further questions.

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