Archive for April, 2009

posted by RobNHM on Apr 9

The prostate is a walnut-sized gland, which surrounds the urethra in men, and is part of the male reproductive system. It sits low in the pelvis below the bladder and just in front of the rectum. The prostate helps make semen, which is the fluid that carries sperm from the testicles through the penis when a man ejaculates.

As mentioned earlier, the prostate surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the bladder. As men age, the prostate often becomes enlarged, putting pressure on the urethra. This, in turn, leads to difficulty in urination. For men under age 50, the most common problem of the prostate is prostatitis, and for men over age 50, the most common prostate problem is prostate enlargement.

Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate. Inflammation in any part of the body is usually a sign that the body is fighting bacteria or repairing an injury. Prostatitis usually results in a burning sensation upon urination or an increased frequency of urination, which may or may not be caused by bacteria. Prostatitis can also cause fever and malaise (a general feeling of being tired and not feeling well) and may or may not be caused by bacteria.

Bacterial prostatitis is seen in a urine sample and is treated with an antibiotic. Most cases of prostatitis, however, are not caused by bacteria but may be caused by a kidney stone, cancer, or some other irritant. Sometimes the cause is unknown. Treatment for non-bacterial prostatitis includes changing your diet, taking warm baths, phytotherapy, physical therapy, and antihistamines. Your doctor may give you a medicine called an alpha-blocker to relax the muscle tissue in the prostate.

No single solution works for everyone with this condition.

Prostate enlargement is common in older men. This condition is also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Older men are at risk for prostate cancer, as well, but prostate cancer is much less common than BPH. Enlargement of the prostate often occurs as men age resulting in difficulty with urination.

The most common symptoms are: feeling like you have to urinate right away (urgency); urinating more often than usual (frequency); having to urinate frequently at night (nocturia); and having difficulty urinating (hesitancy). Prostatic enlargement also results in stasis of the urine (decreased flow), which can increase the likelihood of urinary tract infections.

Early diagnosis of an enlarged prostate is imperative and can usually be detected by having the physician perform a digital rectal examination (DRE). The DRE is recommended annually for most men over age 50 and is highly useful in determining if there is a problem with the prostate. In addition to the DRE, ultrasound can be used to check for disorders of the prostate, as well as a blood test known as the prostate specific antigen (PSA), which is often used by physicians as a screening test for prostate cancer.

Research has shown that there are multiple natural herbal supplements that promote prostate health. These include:

* Saw palmetto, a natural herb, has been clinically shown to decrease the urinary symptoms associated with BPH.
* Ginger root has powerful anti-inflammatory effects.
* Both nettle root extract, which increases urinary output, and pumpkin seed have been approved by Germany’s Commission E for relieving urinary disorders associated with BPH.
* Pygeum bark extract decreases frequency of nighttime urination, permits more complete emptying of the bladder, and increases peak urine flow by about 23%.
* Maca root decreases symptoms of BPH and may have a great side effect of improving sexual function.
* L-Arginine is an essential amino acid, which may play a role in improving sexual function, as well as in enhancing the immune system.
* Green tea leaf contains an active ingredient that is a powerful antioxidant polyphenol compound, which may reduce symptoms of BPH and may play a role in cancer prevention.
* Vitamin E protects the prostate from oxidative damage by unstable molecules known as free radicals.
* Zinc is an antioxidant mineral, which protects the prostate from oxidative damage.
* Selenium, another antioxidant mineral, protects the prostate from oxidative damage.

There are many herbal supplements that contain some of these ingredients, but look for one that contains all of these ingredients in order to achieve optimum prostate health. Be sure that you also get annual medical checkups.

Dr. Joseph Mix a Professor of Health Sciences at Liberty University, a member of the American College of Nutrition, and a Certified Nutrition Specialist has conducted original research in the area of herbal medicine. Go to http://www.NaturalHealthMix.com for more information.

posted by RobNHM on Apr 9

Saw palmetto consists of the partially dried, ripe fruit of a low, bushy palm that grows from South Carolina to Florida. The saw palmetto tree grows only about two to four feet high, with fan-shaped serrated leaves and abundant berries. Native Americans used these berries for the treatment of various urinary problems in men. Later, European physicians began using it to relieve the symptoms of BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) by:

* Increasing urinary flow
* Increasing ease of urination
* Facilitating a more complete emptying of the bladder
* Decreasing frequency of urination*

Though some recent studies report conflicting results, a review of 18 randomized trials conducted between 1983 and 1997 and involving approximately 3,000 participants concluded that saw palmetto herbal products provided some benefit in controlling lower urinary tract symptoms and flow measures in men with BPH.* The mechanism of action of saw palmetto is thought to be through its ability to block hormone (testosterone and estrogen) receptor sites and its anti-inflammatory effects.

The recommended dose is one to two grams of the herb per day or 320 mg of an alcohol extract per day. It should be noted that while most researchers believe that saw palmetto is good for symptomatic relief of BPH only and that it does not shrink the size of the enlarged prostate, there is some research to suggest that saw palmetto may actually cause the prostate to shrink slightly, thereby retarding prostate enlargement.*

The drug Proscar does this, too, and to a greater extent than saw palmetto, but other standard medications for BPH have no effect on prostate size. Saw palmetto may also play a role in the management of non-bacterial prostatitis, but it does NOT play a role in the treatment of prostate cancer.*

Routine prostate screenings, including digital rectal exam (DRE) and blood tests for prostate specific antigen (PSA), should be conducted on a regular basis, as advised by a qualified physician. Due to its ability to block hormone receptor sites, it should not be taken by patients receiving hormone therapy, nor should it be taken by those receiving anticoagulant medication.

*REFERENCES
1. Tyler VE. “Herbs of Choice: The Therapeutic Use of Phytomedicinals,” Pharmaceutical Products Press, Binghamptom, NY, 1994. p. 82.
2. Wilt TJ, Ishani A, Rutks I et al. Phytotherapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Public Health Nutr 2000;2(4a):459-472.
3. Braeckman J. The extract of Serenoa repens in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: a multicenter open study. Curr Ther Res. 1994;55:776-785.
4. Romics I, Schmitz H, Frang D. Experience in treating benign prostatic hypertrophy with Sabal serrulata for one year. Int Urol Nephrol. 1993;25:565-569.
5. Marks LS, Partin AW, Epstein JI, et al. Effects of a saw palmetto herbal blend in men with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia. J Urol. 2000;163:1451-1456.
6. Kaplan SA, Volpe MA, Te AE. A prospective, 1-year trial using saw palmetto versus finasteride in the treatment of category III prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome. J Urol. 2004;171:284-288.

Dr. Joseph Mix a Professor of Health Sciences at Liberty University, a member of the American College of Nutrition, and a Certified Nutrition Specialist has conducted original research in the area of herbal medicine. Go to http://www.NaturalHealthMix.com for more information.

posted by SharkysGames on Apr 9

Stag parties are the ending of the single man’s life that is entering into marriage. It is designed for the last fling of freedom. Known to be wild and crazy, stag parties can make lasting memories, not to mention regrets. The history behind the rationale of the stag party is to provide the prospective groom time to do things that he will not be able to do after getting married. This can leave the door wide open! To tastefully have a stag party, the best man needs to remember the fact the prospective groom is the one to pay the price for any misdeeds.

The best man plans the stag party. He invites friends and family in the hopes of creating a night the prospective groom will never forget. The night is usually filled with fun, jokes, and alcohol. The men can either take the groom to several locations or one main place. Wherever the party is to be held, it will be the night many will talk about for years to come. To make the memories of the night last even longer, most men have cameras to record the events of the evening.

Most stag parties include a stripper and a great deal of alcohol. A stripper is hired by the male friends to do dancing, and to embarrass the groom. Whether the stripper takes the role of a maid serving the party, or a female cop busting the party, the sense of fun is made and very sexual in content. From the stripping of clothing to teasing the prospective groom, the stripper will do just about anything requested by members of the party.

Some parties are simple all night poker games with the men who enjoy the bonding without any restrictions. They smoke cigars, drink endless amounts of alcohol, and talk male-talk all night long. It can be pretty harmless compared to some of the other kinds of parties. Simple enjoyment of “guy’s night out” can be a theme for this kind of stag party.

Many grooms-to-be will make a pledge with their wives-to-be not to have strippers, but to have a more gentlemanly type party for his last night. Some brides will walk out on their husbands-to-be if they have learned their men have broken the pledge. In all seriousness, stag parties vary from groom to groom. If the best man is creating the party, he needs to talk with the groom to make sure they can have x-rated toys too!

The different styles of stag parties all include one similar gesture, giving the prospective groom a night to remember. From pulling pranks to complete surprises, stag parties can have an “anything goes” attitude. Beyond breaking the law, stag parties are a way to enjoy time with the soon-to-be married male friend and showing him, the things he will supposedly miss once married.

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posted by SteveTaylor on Apr 9

Problems related to male fertility have been researched and talked about in the recent past. Infertility and low sperm count related problems have been a cause for concern for couples who are not able to conceive.

Following some of the suggestions given below can help in boosting sperm count and thereby the chances of conception. They are:

Cut down on unhealthy habits

It has been medically proven that alcohol and smoking are the main causes for male infertility. Nicotine as well as alcohol inhibits the production of healthy sperms. Men who consume drugs along with alcohol and smoke are at a higher risk of infertility. It is advised to seek professional help to fight such problems.

Take control of stress levels

Stress, depression and other heart ailments are some of the other causes for male infertility and low sperm count. Heredity could be another reason. Tensions at the work place and other personal problems may cause depression which can also lead to male infertility.

One time tested solution which needs to be made part of your daily regimen is regular exercise. Before getting geared up for the exercise regimen, get the green signal from your family physician, so that you do not end up aggravating the problem. Similarly, yoga and other deep meditation techniques are highly effective, since they de-stress the body and helps calm both the mind as well as body.

Follow the right diet

It has been found that obesity is also one of the other reasons contributing to a low sperm count. Eat healthy and nutritious food and desist the temptation of calorie rich soda drinks. Reduce the intake of caffeine. Drink lots of water to keep your body hydrated.

Seek help from a professional

You need to approach fertility clinics and take expert opinion from the experts to boost the sperm count. You need to follow their advice to abstain from alcohol and cigarette smoking.

You could also look at other alternatives like herbal supplements. Extensive research has been conducted on these natural and herbal supplements and they have proven to be highly effective in treating infertility. These herbal supplements are referred as “Semen Volume Enhancers” and they help in improving and energizing sexual health.

Men who drive continuously for long periods of time or men who sit for hours together on the computer need to take a break every half an hour. In case this is not practical, they need to do some exercise with extended breaks. Tight underpants could be another reason for male infertility; the reason being the testes is pressed. Long term sitting results in compression of the testes. During sitting, the thigh area gets warmer and the damage takes place. Professional drivers are also at a greater risk of developing infertility related problems. Temperature changes and lifestyle too have a bearing on the sperm count. Simple and practical changes can be introduced in the lifestyle to fight these problems.
Effect of Cell Phones

Of late, the infertility cases have been on the rise and some of them have been attributed to the extensive use of cell phones. Clinical tests conducted on a group of men who used cell phones for more than four hours daily, revealed that they had a low sperm count. They were potential candidates for developing fertility related problems in the near future.

How can we tackle this problem?

You need to take immediate and responsible steps before the situation gets out of control. Try and cut down on the usage of cell phones. This is one way of preventing phone radiation. Do not attach the cell phone to your belt. Avoid keeping it in your trouser pocket. It results in increase in the temperature. Men of child-bearing age are encouraged to take steps to reduce their exposure to cell phone radiation as much as possible.

Never carry a cell phone on the belt or in a pocket near the groin, where it can raise the temperature in this receptive area and could lead to fertility problems.

Steve Taylor is the webmaster of Male Fertility as well as Male Enhancement websites. Visit us online to learn more about male fertility supplements

posted by RobNHM on Apr 8

Prostate cancer means that cancer cells form in the tissues of the prostate, the walnut-sized gland that surrounds the urethra in men. It is the most common cancer in American men after skin cancer. Prostate cancer tends to grow slowly compared with most other cancers and may require 10, 20, or 30 years before the tumor gets big enough to cause symptoms. Eventually, cancer cells may metastasize (spread) throughout the body.

By the time symptoms appear, the cancer may be more advanced. By age 50, very few men have symptoms of prostate cancer, yet some precancerous or cancerous cells are present. More than half of all American men have some cancer in their prostate glands by the age of 80. Most of these cancers never pose a problem. They either give no signs or symptoms or never become a serious threat to health. A much smaller percentage of men are actually treated for prostate cancer. Many men with prostate cancer do not die from this disease.

Prostate cancer can sit quietly for years, and most men with the disease have no obvious symptoms. When symptoms finally appear, they may be similar to the symptoms of BPH:

* Trouble passing urine
* Frequent urge to pass urine
* Weak or interrupted stream
* Pain or burning
* Nagging pain in the back, hips, or pelvis

Prostate cancer can spread to the lymph nodes of the pelvis, or it may spread throughout the body, often to the bones. Bone pain, especially in the back, can be a symptom. The risk factors for prostate cancer are:

* Age — being 50 or older increases the risk of prostate cancer
* Race — African-American men have the highest risk; Asian-American men have the lowest; Caucasian, Hispanic and Native-American men are in between.
* Family History — The risk is two to three times higher in men whose fathers or brothers have had the disease; slightly higher for men whose mothers and sisters have had breast cancer
* Diet — higher in men who eat high fat diets with few fruits and vegetables

Early detection is crucial to successful treatment. Men over the age of 50 should have annual prostate exams by a qualified physician who may perform one or more of the following:

* Health history and current symptoms
* Digital rectal exam (DRE) — The DRE is the standard way to check the prostate. With a gloved and lubricated finger, the doctor feels the prostate from the rectum. The test lasts about 10 to 15 seconds. This exam checks for size, firmness, and texture of the prostate; any hard areas, lumps, or growth spreading beyond the prostate; and pain in the prostate.
* Prostate Specific Antigen Test (PSA) — PSA is a protein made by normal cells and prostate cancer cells. It is found in the blood and can be measured with a blood test. PSA levels can rise if a man has prostate cancer, but a high PSA is not proof of cancer. PSA levels go up with age. African-American men tend to have higher PSA levels. Doctors often use a score of 4 (nanograms) or higher to determine that further tests are necessary.
* Prostate Biopsy — If cancer is suspected, a biopsy may be indicated. Usually performed by a urologist, small tissue samples are taken directly from the prostate and examined under a microscope. Most men who have biopsies after routine exams do not have cancer, but it is best to check if cancer is suspected.

Treatment options for prostate cancer include:

* Surgery
* Radiation, including implantable radon seeds
* Chemotherapy
* A combination of the above

Dr. Joseph Mix a Professor of Health Sciences at Liberty University, a member of the American College of Nutrition, and a Certified Nutrition Specialist has conducted original research in the area of herbal medicine. Go to http://www.NaturalHealthMix.com for more information.