As men age, they can begin to feel not as strong, youthful, and sometimes feel less of a man as their vitality begins to wane. Without consistent effort, and transformational health can deteriorate leaving a person feeling less optimal. It is important for men to maintain a healthy weight, blood pressure, blood cholesterol, and blood sugar level while monitoring and eliminating any abdominal obesity from excess calories. Refined foods, such as flour and sugar products in combination with excesses of alcohol can cause a higher risk for disease processes. Health and longevity can be protected if we maintain exercise and fitness. Sedentary lifestyles coupled with overeating can create higher risks of disease with a shorter lifespan in general. As a man, many men want to feel strong and viral just as in their youth. Without effort, health can deteriorate and avoidance is not the answer. Sometimes men avoid their health out of shame, coupled with unrealistic expectations of themselves and how they “should” be with their health.
As we age many things change, including hormonal levels as well as lower functions. Hormones begin to lower over time especially as it relates to testerone, but also thyroid and adrenal hormones, yet less of estrogen and progesterone levels. In our office, we measure salivary hormone levels when assessing male practice members especially when they over 40 years old. Testosterone levels, estradiol. DHEA, whole blood thyroid levels as well as salivary 4 point cortisol levels are useful if the person is fatigued. Topical hormone creams can be provided as an easy solution to improve hormone levels that can affect energy, mood, strength, and sexual function. There is much controversial information regarding the use of synthetic hormone supports to improve stamina and vitality however recent reports suggest that testosterone may adversely affect the cardiovascular system. There is still much conflicting information circulating so it is imperative that you speak with your doctor in regards to this treatment if it is in your best interest.
A common disease process that affects men over 50 years old involves the prostate sex organ along with the colon. The western lifestyle consumed with stress and sitting, using food to cater to emotions, eating high amounts of animal products, consuming sugar and refined foods, as well as excess alcohol sets the stage for many chronic diseases such as cardiovascular problems, cancer, arthritis, as well as enlarged prostates, and prostate cancer. A simple blood test can measure an antigen that is created by prostate cancer cells, called PSA or Prostate Specific Antigen and if elevated prostate cancer may be present. Having a digital exam from your primary care to assess prostate enlargement as well as running your PSA number to assess inflammation or infection is an important aspect of prevention. PSA numbers elevate as a response to infection and inflammatory process. Looking deeper with a comprehensive stool panel, as well as an organic acids profile is key to determining the overall health of the body and determining where the infections may be present in the body.
The best overall plan is to stay healthy and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Here are some tips in order to maintain health. Avoiding overeating of processed and refined foods Maintaining a healthy weight Eating fresh veggies, fruits with quality lean proteins Regular movement and exercise Stretching the body Meditation and Yoga practice Listening to your body to address underlying imbalances Annual physical checkup A practice of forgiveness, finding a balance between work and relaxation, gratitude, and joy every day, nurturing creativity while staying connected to friends and family.
All information contained in this blog post is intended for informational and educational purposes only, and is neither intended nor suited to be a replacement or substitute for professional medical treatment nor for professional medical advice relative to a specific medical question or condition.