Men are renowned for being generally more laid-back about their health than women. They are notorious for avoiding doctors’ offices and pushing through all types of pain (except man-flu of course, very serious business that is)! Here are just a few starter tips to living a longer, healthier life.
1. Avoid “white foods”: Food obviously comes in pretty much every colour in the rainbow, but white foods are generally unnatural, processed goods. This includes white sugar, flour, and more which tend to be devoid of vitamins, minerals, and natural fibre. These foods contain lots of sugar, and can result in weight gain, diabetes and various other health problems.
2. Eliminate trans fats: Deep-fried foods and items made with hydrogenated oils, such as margarine, peanut butter, pastries and cookies constitute trans fats which can increase the risk of heart disease. Fat is not the enemy though! Go for healthy fats like olive oil and omega-3 oils which have exactly the opposite effect (everything in moderation)!
3. Embrace multivitamins and mineral supplements: There can be no replacement of a good diet, but optimal nutrition can include multivitamin and mineral supplements. Due to poor soil quality, storage, and processing rife in today’s food industry, many foodstuffs lack the necessary vitamins and minerals. Therefore, taking high quality daily supplements can be a good “health insurance” against potential deficiencies.
4. Include weight training in your exercise regimen: Aerobics is best for cardiovascular conditioning, however it cannot totally abet the “flab factor.” Weight training is still overlooked, but is ideal for improving muscle strength and eliminating fat.
5. Drink alcohol only in moderation: A study shows drinking alcohol in moderate amount can protect you against heart disease and reduces risks from all sorts of causes.
6. Protect your prostate: For men aged 40 and above, the prostate gland starts a growth spurt resulting in symptoms like frequent nighttime urination. This condition is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, and can sometimes be prevented with two herbs’ extracts; namely saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) and pygeum (Pygeum africanum). They can improve urinary flow without harmful causing side-effects.
These are just a few things to keep in mind when attempting to live the very best life we can in the time we’ve got. Take charge of your health today.