Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) and Prostate Health

Definition of Hyperplasia

• Hyperplasia refers to enlargement.
• BPH is an enlarged prostate affecting urination—weak urine stream, dribbling, and incomplete bladder emptying.

Anatomy and Effect of BPH

• Prostate Location: Below the urinary bladder, surrounding the urethra.
• Enlargement: Constricts urethra, can push into bladder, reducing its capacity.

Hormonal Factors

• Estrogen and Testosterone: Estrogen derives from testosterone via aromatase enzyme.
  • Excess estrogen enlarges prostate.
• Aging: Testosterone decreases, estrogen increases.
• Intraprostatic Estrogen: Levels of estrogen within the prostate are independent of blood estrogen levels.
• Prolactin: Increased by estrogen, enlarges prostate.

Phytoestrogens

• Plant Estrogens: Weaker than human estrogen; found in foods like pumpkin seeds, saw palmetto, and soy.
• Soy: Should be organic to avoid GMOs.

Reducing Estrogen Production

• Aromatase Inhibition: Key to reduce estrogen, shrink prostate.
• Factors Increasing Aromatase:
  • Age, body fat, insulin levels, alcohol, whole grains, hormone therapy.
• Weight Loss: Important for reducing aromatase activity.

Remedies to Decrease Aromatase

• Cruciferous Vegetables: Kale, broccoli, cabbage, arugula.
• White Button Mushrooms: Sauteed, not raw.
• Flaxseed: Potentially beneficial despite conflicting reports.
• Green Tea: Supportive effect.

Key Remedy: Citrus Peel

• Lemon Peel: Strong aromatase inhibitor with additional health benefits.
  • More nutritious than lemon juice.
  • Blend with water, sweeten with Stevia, or mix with blueberries.

Additional Recommendations

• Lifestyle Changes:
  • Follow a healthy keto diet.
  • Reduce insulin levels.
  • Regularly consume recommended foods.

Conclusion

• Focus on natural aromatase inhibitors to maintain prostate health.
• Emphasize lemon peel for significant benefits.
• Additional resources and videos available for further learning.