Live young, feel younger?

While researchers have yet to find the elusive fountain of youth, there are some lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce the symptoms and risks of andropause and bring you back up to the way you used to feel 10 years ago.

• exercise: Regular exercise can help you control your weight, improve your mood and energy levels, and increase muscle and bone mass - which is key to preventing osteoporosis. You should do muscle and bone strengthening activities at least twice a week. Whether you are just starting out or have been exercising for years, try to make fitness a regular part of your routine. Your goal should be to exercise for at least 10 minutes at a time. Aim to complete at least 150 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity each week. Do a combination of activities that will get your heart pumping and your muscles working. Check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
   
• healthy diet: Eating well doesn't have to be complicated, but getting the foods you need will help raise your energy levels, make it easier to maintain your weight, and help cut your risk of disease. Follow the Canada's Food Guide to ensure that you are getting the proper balance of vegetables, fruits, protein foods and whole grain products. Because andropause can put men at risk for osteoporosis, make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet. Men under the age of 70 should aim for 1,000 mg of calcium and 600 IU of vitamin D daily, while men over 70 need 1,200 mg of calcium and 800 IU of vitamin D a day.
   
• quitting smoking: Smoking has been shown to increase bone loss by reducing our calcium absorption and through other changes to our body. It also puts you at an increased risk for heart disease. Talk to your doctor about a strategy for quitting.
   
• counselling: If low testosterone has you feeling depressed, psychological counselling may help you manage your moods. Talk to your doctor about whether counselling, antidepressants, or a combination of both may help.

All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Andropause-A-Turning-Point-for-Men