Understanding PSA Levels: Causes, Risks, and Natural Ways to Reduce Them

Learn about PSA levels and methods to lower them

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) is produced by prostate gland cells and is present in both semen and blood. The PSA blood test is a crucial tool for early prostate cancer detection, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and checking for recurrence. Approved by the FDA, this test is often used alongside digital rectal exams to screen asymptomatic men for prostate issues. Understanding your PSA levels can help identify potential health concerns early and guide appropriate medical decisions.

Here's what you need to know about elevated PSA levels.

How reliable is the PSA test?

PSA levels are influenced by various factors and are not exclusively indicative of prostate cancer. Conditions like benign prostate enlargement and infections can also raise levels.

PSA readings above ten nanograms per milliliter suggest a significant risk, roughly 50%, of prostate cancer, but high levels do not confirm cancer. Conversely, lower PSA does not rule out the disease.

Conditions associated with high PSA levels

Prostatitis, an infection or inflammation of the prostate

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement common with aging

Prostate manipulation, like ejaculation or biopsies

Medications affecting male hormones

Urinary tract infections

Physical activities such as cycling

Genetic predispositions

Diversion procedures or exams like digital rectal exams

Use of medical tools like cystoscopies

Urinary catheter placement

Biopsy procedures

Factors that may lower PSA levels

Excess weight or obesity

Aspirin intake

Cholesterol-lowering medications

Drugs for BPH, such as finasteride or dutasteride

Antifungal treatments like ketoconazole

Herbal supplements with phytoestrogens, including saw palmetto

Effective ways to quickly reduce high PSA levels

Maintain regular exercise to support a healthy weight

Include tomatoes in your diet for their antioxidant benefits

Prefer lean proteins such as chicken, fish, and plant-based sources; limit processed meats and dairy

Eat vitamin D-rich foods and consider supplementation to support prostate health

Drink green tea, known for its cancer-fighting antioxidants

Practice stress management techniques

Increase intake of fruits, vegetables, and nuts rich in lycopene, which inhibits prostate inflammation

Add pomegranate, which is linked to lower PSA levels in prostate cancer patients

Consider NSAIDs like aspirin to reduce inflammation and PSA

Avoid harmful foods such as fried items, sugary snacks, and saturated fats. Limit alcohol, eggs, soy products like tofu, and processed canned foods to minimize hormone disruption from chemicals like bisphenol A.

Signs to watch for prostate health concerns

Frequent, painful urination, especially nighttime urinary urgency

Reduced semen volume and erectile difficulties

Bladder control problems or incontinence from tumor pressure

Blood in urine or semen

Pain in hips, pelvis, lower back, or chest indicating possible metastasis

Numbness or weakness in limbs from spinal cord involvement