What happens to men in their fifties? You might be wondering what is so special about this age or why it causes such a significant shift in your body and hormones—making it more difficult to achieve, or sustain, healthy weight loss, sleep, or an active libido.
Our culture tells us this is all part of the natural aging process, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, if you’re a male in (or approaching) your fifties, there are certain lifestyle adjustments you can make to help you avoid common men’s health issues that prevent you from living life to its fullest potential.
Men’s Health After 50: What You Need to Know
There are certain health issues that men are more prone to developing after the age of 50. These can include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, prostate issues, heart attack or stroke, and low testosterone (Low T).
Men can experience low T symptoms even earlier than 50—with some as young as 30. However, it’s reported that on average, men’s testosterone levels decline about 1% a year after they reach the age of 40.
If any of these conditions run in your family, or you’re starting to experience symptoms of low T, including rapid weight gain, depression, low concentration, etc. it’s time to break the cycle of men’s health issues and get back on track with your health and wellness goals.
Below are a few easy tips that you can incorporate into your routine. Always remember to consult with a medical professional before starting a new meal plan or exercise.
Men’s Health Guide After 50
Stay Active
There’s a big difference between staying active vs. staying busy. You might be juggling your career, family life, finances, friends, and other commitments. But a busy calendar doesn’t always mean you’re doing the type of physical activity that gets the heart bumping and the muscles moving. Instead, the busyness of life often creates stress, anxiety, or depression.
DID YOU KNOW…that physical activity can help relieve stress, improve your mood, lower blood pressure, and help you sleep at night? You probably did, but what are you doing to ensure physical exercise is a normal part of your daily routine?
Reduce Added Sugar Intake
Some of us like a sugar cookie after dinner, a morning glass of orange juice, or a pint of beer with our friends during football. Sugar comes in many forms, and in moderation, can be okay, but at the end of the day, added sugar is something your body doesn’t need. And as you get older, it’s important to watch your daily intake.
Consuming too much added sugar can raise blood pressure and increase chronic inflammation, both of which are pathological pathways to heart disease. Excess consumption of sugar…also contributes to weight gain by tricking your body into turning off its appetite-control system because liquid calories are not as satisfying as calories from solid foods.
Seek Professional Guidance
When you were a twenty-something, you probably didn’t need to visit your GP as often as you do now. Colds, the flu, or other illnesses may have been no match against your natural immunity. But as you age, your immune system weakens, which means it may take longer to recover from an illness or even injury. Let’s also not forget that the best prevention against disease or cancer is early detection.
So, if you notice something doesn’t feel or look right, consult with a professional early, as the longer you wait, the more invasive your treatment may be. Make it a habit to stay connected to your healthcare team and take a proactive role in your men’s health. This brings us to our next tip!
Meet with a Men’s Health Expert
The reality is every person is different, which means you may or may not experience the men’s health issues listed above. Therefore, having a men’s health expert assess your mental and physical health will allow you to take a proactive vs. reactive role in your men’s health journey.
If you’re prone to rapid weight gain, stress/anxiety, or erectile dysfunction, your doctor can create a custom program that allows you to identify and treat the root cause of the issue before it affects other areas of your life.
Take Control of Your Health after 50
Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, or approaching your 50s, our team can help you create a proactive men’s health treatment plan that works around your busy schedule and has you feeling more energized and on track with your health and wellness goals.
To schedule an appointment with EveresT Men’s Health, you can contact one of our three locations in Plymouth, Woodbury, and Eagan. As a new patient, you’ll receive a $50 testosterone check and body composition screening to help you start on the path to a brand new you!
What are you waiting for?! Get ready to conquer new obstacles with EveresT today!
