Staying Healthy After 40

Health Tips for Men Over 40

Ban Processed Foods.

Processed foods, such as instant mashed potatoes and white bread, are quickly broken down in the body, which can increase the body's absorption of glucose and rapidly drive up blood sugar levels. High blood sugar can contributes to weight gain, diabetesand other health problems. In order to maintain steady blood sugar levels, reach for foods with a low glycemic index, such as whole grains and vegetables, which are digested slowly and don't cause sugar spikes.

Maintain Vigorous Sexual Function.

Most cases of erectile dysfunction (impotence) in older men have a physical cause -- not getting enough blood to the area in question. To improve circulation, men should refrain from smoking, which constricts blood vessels, exercise and consult a physician about current medications some that treat high blood pressure or depression may worsen ED.

Get A Prostate Exam.

At age 40, the prostate gland begins a growth spurt, a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasiathat has been related to hormone fluctuations. If you're peeing a lot at night, this might be happening to you. Not to worry. Benign prostatic hyperplasia isn't cancer, doesn't lead to cancer and is rarely life-threatening. To treat this condition, see your doctor and get a prescription for alpha-blockers, which relax the prostate's smooth muscle.

Lift Weights.

Try not to get too depressed, but once you hit 40 a man's body starts producing less testosterone. Low levels of testosterone can affect your memory, sexual function and even muscle mass. To stave off decreasing muscle mass (once you hit 50 it declines 15 percent per decade), prevent back injuries and protect against heart disease, incorporate strength traininginto your work out.

Watch Your Waist.

As men get older their bellies tend to expand, resulting in dangerous visceral abdominal fatthat can increase the risk for heart-related problems, including heart attack and stroke. These problems may be exacerbated if your waist size exceeds 40-inches. Exercise for 30 minutes at least three times a week and practice good nutritional habits by eating a variety of whole grains, lean meat and fruit and vegetables.

Yes or No to Multivitamins?

Research from Harvard Men's Health Watchrecently discovered that your seemingly harmless daily multivitamin may be promoting the very conditions you're hoping to prevent. Because most men already get their recommended dose of vitamins from enriched food, exceeding the amount the body needs can up your risk for chronic diseases. Too much folate, for example, can increase your risk for colon cancer, while an excess of vitamin Emay increase mortality risk. To be on the safe side, talk to your doctor about your nutritional habits before starting any supplemental regime.

Stay Social.

A stable home life is the foundation to maintaining a healthy mind and body. According to the Mayo Clinic, A social support network made up of friends, family and peers can help steady you in times of stress, create a sense of belonging and make you feel secure.

Ban Processed Foods.

Processed foods, such as instant mashed potatoes and white bread, are quickly broken down in the body, which can increase the body's absorption of glucose and rapidly drive up blood sugar levels. High blood sugar can contributes to weight gain, diabetesand other health problems. In order to maintain steady blood sugar levels, reach for foods with a low glycemic index, such as whole grains and vegetables, which are digested slowly and don't cause sugar spikes.

Drink Less.

Wine drinkers have been rejoicing for years over the positive effects of one glass a day. If you would much rather crack open a cold one than uncork a Bordeaux, you, too, can now rejoice. According to a study by the University of Texas Southwestern, drinking beer in moderation can deliver protection against heart attacks, stroke, hypertension, diabetes and dementia. But that doesn't mean you can throw caution to the wind. Drinking more than one drink per day, defined as a 5-ounce glass of wine, 12-ounce beer or 1.5-ounces of 80-proof distilled liquor, can increase your risk of liver disease and stroke, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Watch Your Prostate Cancer Risk.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer, other than skin cancers, in American men, according to the American Cancer Society. To reduce your risk, eat low-fat, high-fiber foods, such as soy beans, tofu and plenty of vegetables. Taking vitamins D and E, selenium and green tea may also help prevent prostate cancer, but before embarking on any supplemental diets, check with your doctor.