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1. What is it and where does it come from?
Natural Saw Palmetto extract come from the berries of small palm trees. The extracts are comprised of various saturated and unsaturated fatty acids (no cholesterol) and sterols. The sterols contain beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol. Both appear to be active components of Saw Palmetto berries.
Saw Palmetto is a popular extract used by men. The Saw Palmetto palm trees bearing berries are found in the Southeastern United States. Bodybuilding.com sells only high-quality pharmaceutical grade Saw Palmetto extract.
2. What does it do and what scientific studies give evidence to support this?
Many studies have been done that confirm its beneficial effects in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a condition where the prostate gland may grow from the size of a walnut to as large as a small orange. Although this condition is not malignant, it can cause a blockage of the urethra and require surgery. Specifically, Saw Palmetto has been found to prevent the binding of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) to androgen receptors by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone into DHT. DHT appears to be a major factor in the onset of BPH.
3. Who needs it and what are some symptoms of deficiency?
Many men above the age of 50 experience BPH; therefore, supplementing with saw palmetto can be extremely beneficial.
4. How much should be taken? Are there any side effects?
To help prevent prostate enlargement, the recommended dosage is at least 160 mg per day.
Article: Experience the Health Benefits of Saw Palmetto!
Roughly one-half of the male population suffers from enlarged prostate, also referred to as benign prostate hyperplasia, or BPH. It's symptoms range from inflammation (prostatitis) to swelling of the prostate, and painful and frequent urination. The most common medical remedy for BPH is surgical removal of the prostate, which can lead to impotence, incontinence and increased risk of heart disease.
Prostate is enlarged by the action of dihydrotestosterone, DHT, which is a metabolite of the primary male hormone testosterone. The conversion of testosterone to DHT is facilitated by the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. Recently, the drug Proscar has been approved, which essentially functions by inhibiting the action of this enzyme. The long-term side effects of Proscar, however, are not known.
Nature provides several remedies for the management of BPH, among which saw palmetto berries (Serenoa repens) have been found to be most effective. Saw Palmetto was traditionally used by American Indians as a remedy for increased frequency of urination during the night, atrophy of the testes, impotence, inflammation of the prostate and decreased libido in men. These beneficial effects of saw palmetto have been thoroughly corroborated by various studies carried out both in the United States and Europe.
Saw palmetto berries comprise of a volatile oil, which contains a variety of fatty acids, and is high in phytosterols. These ingredients not only control the conversion of testosterone to DHT but also block its binding to the prostate cells, which reduce the levels of inflammation and minimize the risk of prostate enlargement. Importantly, saw palmetto also has anti-estrogenic and anti-androgenic effects in addition to anti-inflammatory properties. Saw palmetto, thus, is one of Nature's best and safest remedies to promote male health, and increased vigor and vitality.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How Quickly Does Saw Palmetto Work?
Saw palmetto berries may become effective with discernible benefits short periods of time. In some cases, it may be as short as six to eight weeks.
What Are the Side effects of Saw Palmetto?
No side effects of saw palmetto have been reported in any of the studies other than mild gastrointestinal irritation, which resolves of its own accord in a few days after the start of the regimen.
What is Recommended Dosage of Saw Palmetto?
Many different preparations of saw palmetto are on the market, some of which are standardized to phytosterols whereas other are standardized to fatty acids. It is best to do research to obtain the product that best describes the content of various active ingredients. Routinely, a twice-daily dose of 160 milligram of saw palmetto extract standardized to 85% fatty acids and sterols is recommended. From this, the amounts necessary for optimal beneficial effects can be calculated, given the percent standardization of any product.
Does Saw Palmetto Enhance Libido?
Yes, over time, saw palmetto has the potential of promoting healthy libido by triggering healthy biochemical processes in the prostate.
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