Healthy Aging in Men
Healthy aging in men is different than it is for women. Traditionally, women do a good job of getting to the doctor and having appropriate health screenings. For men this isn’t as common. But it’s a critical first step toward healthy aging.
As you age, it’s important to get a physical every year. You’ll want to make sure your cholesterol and heart health are tested. It’s also important to have your PSA numbers checked – this is the screening for prostate cancer.
As a man, your prostate may begin to enlarge as you age. This can lead to problems with frequent urination. It’s important to talk with your doctor about this symptom because help is available.
Prostate cancer is also a greater risk for men as they age. The good news is that a simple blood test can help to screen for this disease. And treatment options today are better than ever. When prostate cancer is detected early it can be treated very successfully.
Eating foods that contain lycopene such as tomatoes and watermelon can actually help you to have a healthier prostate. You can also purchase lycopene supplements that can be added to your daily routine.
As you age your risk of heart disease also increases. It’s important to make sure you eat a heart healthy diet and get your cholesterol tested each year. You may also need to have regular stress tests in order to determine the heath of your heart.
Hardened arteries can lead to problems with heart disease and stroke. But vascular problems can also cause problems with sexual function. In order to function properly, your blood vessels need to be in good working order.
While supplements such as Viagra can make it easier to participate in an active sex life, the best way to protect the future of your sex life is through a healthy lifestyle. This includes regular exercise and a diet low in saturated fats.
A healthy weight is also critical as you age. This will make it easier for you to be mobile and take the stress off of your joints. It will also help to keep your heart healthy. Extra weight can cause inflammation in your joints and can even lead to diabetes.
You should also work on maintaining your flexibility. Particularly for men, flexibility tends to decrease with age. However, continuing a fitness routine that includes regular stretching can help prevent this from happening. Many falls and fractures are a result of being inflexible when moving.
Men have specific needs when it comes to their senior years. But healthy aging in men is possible when you take care of your body with a healthy lifestyle and you see your doctor regularly for screenings and examinations.