For years, middle-aged men have stocked their medicine cabinets with a certain berry-based remedy touted as nature’s answer to bathroom woes. However, recent insights from Harvard Medical professionals suggest that this popular pill may not deliver the promised benefits.
The Findings on Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto — a plant extract often marketed as a natural fix for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), otherwise known as an enlarged prostate — has gained considerable popularity among middle-aged men. It’s believed to mimic the effects of prescription drugs such as finasteride, which are utilized to combat both BPH and hair loss.
Experts Weigh In
However, experts argue that the scientific backing for saw palmetto’s efficacy is fraught with issues. Many studies that support its use are small and flawed, particularly those funded by the manufacturers of dietary supplements. A significant clinical trial involving nearly 370 men demonstrated that even triple-strength doses of saw palmetto did not perform better than a placebo.
Interestingly, while some men in the trial reported slight improvements, the placebo group experienced similar benefits, suggesting that the ritual of taking the supplement rather than the supplement itself may be the source of these perceived effects.
A recent meta-analysis involving 4,656 participants similarly indicated that there are “little to no benefits for men with lower urinary tract symptoms” due to BPH.
Dr. Heidi Rayala, an assistant professor of urology at Harvard Medical School, noted, ‘If the ingredients in these herbal products worked well for urinary symptoms, drug companies would have already had them approved by the FDA as a medicine that insurance companies would have to cover.’ She added, ‘Saw palmetto is unlikely to harm you, but it probably won’t provide any major benefits either. It’s okay to take them, but just be cautious about spending too much of your own money on these alternatives.’
Consumer Awareness
Dr. Marc Garnick, also from Harvard, agrees with Dr. Rayala’s sentiments. ‘It is easy to understand why so many find taking a naturally occurring supplement for treating urinary difficulties in middle age appealing,’ he said. ‘However, evidence of effectiveness with saw palmetto is lacking, and its use for BPH and other common urinary symptoms without a full evaluation of the potential cause should be discouraged.’
In a revealing investigation conducted in 2015, it was discovered that many store-bought herbal supplements contained no trace of the advertised herb, instead being loaded with cheap fillers such as wheat and rice. This led New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman to emphasize, ‘The old adage “buyer beware” may be especially true for consumers of herbal supplements.’
An estimated 14 million men in the US are currently dealing with an enlarged prostate. Notably, around a third of supplement buyers choose saw palmetto, according to Harvard Health.
As many men consider alternatives for their health concerns, it’s crucial to approach information with a discerning mindset and consult healthcare professionals.
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