Saturday 14 September 2013

The 5 key health warnings that men over 50 should look out for

After you turn 50 it is important to recognise the signs of ill health and know how to keep yourself physically and mentally fit. There are many events across the UK that aim to raise awareness of such issues. These include ‘Movember.’  This is a charity event for which men grow moustaches throughout the month of November. It was established to raise awareness of common male health problems such as prostate cancer and testicular cancer.
Specific nutrients become more important with age. A combination of diet and nutritional supplementscan help to ensure that the body’s needs are met and reduce the risk of particular health concerns. Here are some simple tips to help men look after their health and wellbeing into their 50′s and beyond.
1) Watch your Weight
Obesity significantly increases the risk of heart disease, which affects 1 in 5 men over the age of 50 and is one of the biggest killers in the UK. Excess weight and sedentary lifestyles also accelerate the loss of muscle mass, which can lead to other age related conditions such as arthritis. Try to maintain a healthy weight and do daily strength training exercises to help ward off the onset of these conditions.
Supplements to consider… African Mango has become one of the world’s most popular weight loss supplements. It is believed to help to reduce sugar cravings and can be beneficial for sustainable weight loss. 
2) Check your Prostate
The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system. It is not uncommon for the prostate to become enlarged as men age. If the prostate begins to press on the tube carrying urine from the bladder, it can cause benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) causing urination to become more frequent and painful. More serious conditions include prostate cancer. To look after the health of the prostate increase your dietary intake of zinc. Also, try to avoid a diet high in saturated fats and red meat.
Supplements to consider… Prostamex Gold is a best selling men’s health supplement that contains high levels of its active ingredients, including plant sterols, essential fatty acids and zinc.
3) Evaluate your Exercise & Stress Levels
It is important to stay active with age, as sedentary lifestyles and high stress levels can play havoc with health. Aching joints can make the prospect of exercise seem daunting, but it doesn’t need to be. Gentle exercises such as walking or swimming can significantly improve health and lower stress levels. To reduce the risk of injury it is important to start slowly with any exercise regime. Also, find ways to relax; read a book or take a bath. Try to avoid smoking and heavy alcohol consumption.
Supplements to consider… Omega 3 fish oils offer many health benefits but are most popularly taken to support heart and joint health. Healthy levels of vitamin B are essential for normal brain function, however, high stress levels deplete the body of B-vitamins. Try aVitamin B Complex to replenish lost stores.   
4) Check your Stools
Your stools can be a good indicator of general health. You should look out for mucous or blood in the faeces or changes in bowel habits. If these are accompanied by abdominal pain or unexplained weight loss you should consult with your doctor immediately, as there is a small chance they could indicate serious health conditions, such as bowel cancer.
After the age of 50, men should visit their doctor every 5 years to have their stools tested. These visits will also allow the doctor to check blood pressure, cholesterol levels and the risk of diabetes, which are closely linked to heart disease.
5) Try to Avoid Loneliness
Your emotional health is just as important as your physical health. Long periods of loneliness can lead to anxiety and depression and seriously affect your mental health. Broken sleep is a common indicator of loneliness. Sleep deprivation further lowers mood and energy levels.
It is important to stay sociable and take steps to connect with the people around you. You may choose to join a local club, volunteer, or try out new hobbies. Men often find issues such as loneliness difficult to talk about openly. There are lots of people in similar situations so don’t be afraid to reach out for help.

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