by Dr. Paul Hutinger
Question: I participate in Masters Swimming for health and fitness, but am worried about prostate problems in my 50+ age group. What ideas do you have for prevention?
Answer: Your swim training is an excellent activity to maintain your cardiovascular health. You are observant to notice the prostate problems in the general population. Athletes like yourself, have higher testosterone levels which can promote BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasis).
According to the experts, like Dr. M. Schachter, all men over fifty, should be checked by a doctor for BPH. This is a usual part of a complete physical. He will give a (DRE) rectal exam and a blood test for levels of PSA (prostate specific antigen). Symptoms of prostate problems include the need to urinate frequently at night.
Research demonstrates that some nutrients can reduce the size of the prostate and reduce symptoms. Farnsworth reported this in Urology Research in 1981. Essential fatty acids showed a decrease in symptoms. Amino acids, glycine, alanine and glutamic acid demonstrated 95% of subjects were relieved of symptoms, Dumrau, in J. Gerontol in 1962. Saw palmetto has shown the best results in double-blind studies by Champlault, Br. J. Clin Pharmacol, 1984. There are supplements that combine the saw palmetto of 160mg with zinc, pygeum and fatty acids that are available at many health food stores.
Anyone wanting additional information, or having personal questions, please send a large SASE to: Dr. Paul Hutinger, 1755 Georgia Ave NE, St. Petersburg FL 33703. You can e-mail me at phut@usms.org.