Prostate growth in an inevitable danger for almost every man in the world. If uncontrolled, a fast-growing prostate can contribute to dysfunctional urination[1], high blood pressure, diabetes, and possibly prostate cancer.[2] Most current treatments for enlarged prostate function by inhibiting enzymes that help trigger prostate growth.[3] This can be dangerous because these enzymes have many other important functions that should not be inhibited. Fortunately, alternative medicine has found a new method for stopping prostate growth that does not significantly interfere with overall functions of important enzymes. 

Why the prostate grows as men age

Prostate growth occurs in 50% of men over the age of 50 and 75% of men over 80 [1], and is the result of the overproduction of the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT binds to receptors on the surface of the prostate, signaling it to multiply its cells.

As men age, the production of normal testosterone decreases. It is thought that DHT production is increased to compensate for the diminished effect of testosterone.[4] The enzyme 5-alpha reductase converts testosterone into DHT. It is targeted by the conventional drugs Propecia, Proscar, and Avodart.

The natural approach

Conventional treatment neutralizes 5-alpha reductase, which can lead to the following side effects:

• Erectile dysfunction
• Reduced ejaculate volume
• Diminished sex drive [5]
• Moderate to severe depression [6]

The natural way to prevent and reduce an enlarged prostate targets the DHT molecule instead of the 5-alpha reductase enzyme. A new supplement for prostate enlargement uses equol, a type of estrogen that is naturally produced by good intestinal bacteria, to attach to DHT molecules.[7] It is impossible for DHT to bind to the receptors on the prostate when equol is attached, which prevents the prostate from receiving the signal to enlarge.[8] Most importantly, equol does not inhibit 5-alpha reductase. This minimizes the chances of the adverse side effects associated with conventional drugs. Studies indicate that equol prevents prostate enlargement and reduces prostate size in animals.[7]

How to find the new supplement for prostate enlargement

Men over 40 should begin to consider the dangers of prostate growth, as this is when testosterone levels first begin to decline.[10] Using equol between the ages of 40 and 50 would offer the most benefit as a preventative treatment. Men over 50 should use equol to control and reduce any prostate growth that has already occurred, which may be indicated by the following symptoms:

• Frequent and intermittent urination
• Weak urine stream
• Nighttime urination.[11]

The only equol supplement currently produced is Equolibrium by Nature’s Sunshine products. It contains 6 mg of equol. The recommended dosage is one capsule twice daily for 3 to 6 months. As a naturally occurring compound that is produced by good bacteria, equol is unlikely to cause any unexpected side effects, and excess amounts are harmlessly excreted in the urine.[9]