Top 10 Problems of Aging Men

Developed by researchers at the St. Louis University School of Medicine, the ADAM [Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male] Questionnaire lists a series of 10 symptoms that are highly predictive of low testosterone levels. A combination of any four of these symptoms should be followed up by a medical visit and a testosterone test.

1. Decrease in sex drive
2. Lack of energy
3. Decrease in strength and/or endurance or both
4. Lost height
5. Decreased ‘enjoyment of life’
6. Sadness or grumpiness or both
7. Less erectile strength
8. Deterioration in athleticism
9. Sleepiness after dinner
10. Decreased work performance

If you or a friend suffer from more than of these than you want, chck with a qualified Health Professional check out Ultimate Libido and  Ultimate Male Energy

Prostate Health – The Hormone Connection

Most men don’t even realize they have a prostate let alone what it does–that is, until it starts acting up. This walnut-sized gland consists of two lobes, enclosed in a layer of tissue and is located just below the bladder in front of the rectum. Encircling the urethra (the tube through which urine leaves the body) the prostate is part of the male reproductive system. One of the main roles of the prostate is to squeeze fluid into the urethra as sperm travels through it during ejaculation. This liquid helps to energize sperm and de-acidify the vaginal canal (and you thought you only had to go through Sex Ed. once in your lifetime!)

Unfortunately, as men age, a condition called benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) starts to develop, causing the prostate gland to enlarge, ultimately disturbing the flow of urine and greatly contributing to erectile dysfunction (ED). In fact, half of all men who suffer from prostate disease also suffer from ED, which makes perfect sense once you understand that the prostate is an integral part of a mans sexuality and proper ejaculation is dependant upon the health of the gland.

BPH affects more than 50 percent of men past the age of 50, yet many men start to notice the negative effects of BPH as early as age 40. As a result of BPH, the bladder becomes irritated and sometimes inflamed – inflammation of the prostate is often referred to as prostatitis. This causes the bladder to contract when it contains only a small amount of urine, leading to more trips to the bathroom. If urine remains in the bladder, urinary tract infections can occur. Long-term consequences include bladder stones or bladder damage, kidney disease, and incontinence.

BPH–the cancer connection

In 2005, more than 200,000 new cases of prostate cancer were detected in the United States alone, leading to 30,000 deaths. The problem is that the majority of earlier prostate disorders eventually become full blown prostate cancer, even though Urologists are still unclear as to why this is. Having said this, numerous studies indicate that the accumulation of body fat–especially in the abdominal region–seems to be a determining factor when it comes to prostate cancer risk.

The hormone link

Although men produce both the male hormone testosterone and the female hormone estrogen throughout their lives, aging men notice decreases in levels of active (or free) testosterone, which often leads to higher levels of estrogen. Imbalances of estrogen can increase the activity of substances that promote cell growth (i.e. cancer). Other research indicates that even though testosterone levels fall with age, older men continue to produce dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a substance metabolized from testosterone in the prostate, which may be a factor in its growth. It seems that men who don’t produce DHT do not experience prostate enlargement.

Prostate protective nutrients

Before we explore some of the most research proven prostate protective nutrients available today, let’s first look at some of the foods that aggravate the prostate. Research presented in the International Journal of Cancer, suggests that a menu including primarily refined grain products, processed meats, red meat and organ meats contributes to increased prostate cancer risk. Other research supports this conclusion, suggesting that some saturated fats and starches are directly associated with prostate cancer risk, while essential fatty acids (especially omega: 3 fatty acids like flaxseed oil and cold water fish oil) are prostate-protective.

Research published in the journal Carcinogenesis, shows that omega-6 fatty acids–found in commercial cooking oils and bakery items–enhance inflammatory messengers within the prostate. Inflammation is a well accepted risk factor when it comes to prostate cancer, as inflammation actually fuels prostate growth.

Now the good news

Substantial research shows that regular consumption of bright red fruits and vegetables can greatly protect prostate health. Watermelons, papayas, pink grapefruits, guava and especially tomatoes are excellent sources of the antioxidant lycopene–the main carotenoid responsible for prostate health and prostate cancer protection (in men, the majority of lycopene is concentrated within the prostate).

Studies have uncovered several nutrients that can effectively neutralize the formation of DHT within the prostate gland, thereby helping to maintain normal healthy prostate function. The most powerful and efficacious of these DHT blocking agents include properly standardized extracts (and dosages) of: phytosterols–especially beta-sitosterol, flower pollen extract, stinging nettle^, , pygeum africanum, saw palmetto and zinc^.

Many of us may be facing an inadequate vitamin D status due to the fact that we are constantly warned against sun exposure. Aside from exposing your skin to the sun regularly (this in no way condones tanning!), vitamin D supplementation may be a wise choice, as it has been shown in numerous studies to inhibit the proliferation, invasiveness, and metastasis of human prostatic cancer cells.

Don’t forget exercise

Researchers from the Harvard School of Public health have determined that regular vigorous activity could slow the progression of prostate cancer. And Australian researchers found that moderate physical activity actually reduces the risk of developing prostate cancer. When it comes to the healthy metabolism of prostate cells, exercise, proper diet and supplementation is no longer an option.

Ultimate Prostate is one of the most complete and powerful natural prostate-health supporting formulas available in the health industry today. The formula combines 12 of the most scientifically validated vegetable compounds, herbs, spices, flower extracts and minerals (Broccoli extract, Indole 3 carbinol, Stinging Nettle root extract, Pygeum extract, Flower pollen extract, Phytosterols, Natural Lycopene, Zinc, Selenium, Vitamin D3, Rosemary and Bioperine®) in synergistic ratios for maximum effectiveness