What man would not enjoy walking past a mirror and giving himself a wink while thinking, “I’ve still got the stuff,” at 80 years of age?
On the other hand, at no stage in life does anyone enjoy the feeling of limitation, especially regarding male vitality.
However, by the numbers, men are the most notorious for neglecting proactive health management post-retirement, with notable consequences.
Masculine ego and pride are directly tied to our ability to perform “manly duties.” Unfortunately, as the body ages and without proper maintenance, many resources that facilitate everything from mowing the lawn to virility begin to diminish.
Did you notice the caveat “without proper maintenance”? Much like a fine automobile, the male body must be well-maintained if expected to perform consistently.
It has long been thought that there is disproportionality between the rates at which men and women age. Many feel that men age at a faster rate than women. However, statistically, the data lends itself more toward comparing longevity over simple aging, with results trending in the ladies’ favor.
Many reasons for this are tied to mental perspective going into retirement. For the women (especially the homemakers), their mindset toward retirement trends toward exploring newfound freedoms and liberty to go and do.
Whereas, for many men who spent their careers as dedicated providers, the perspective lends itself more toward rest, relaxation, and enjoying the spoils of their labors.
So, what does it take for a man to enjoy the life he has earned while ensuring that his body performs as it should?
The list is simple and straightforward:
– Strength training exercise at least 3x per week. This resource keeps the body physically strong, the mind stays sharp, energy levels remain high, you will feel more confident, AND strength exercise facilitates testosterone production!
– Eat a diet higher in healthy fats. Sources include avocados, nuts, fatty fish (such as salmon), extra-virgin olive oil, etc. Numerous studies suggest that a higher fat diet (unsaturated fats) facilitates more elevated testosterone levels for aging males. *just be cautious of portion sizes as fat is high in calories
– Maintain A Health Body Weight. Extra body weight not only zaps your energy and limits mobility, it also plays an adverse role in sustaining healthy levels of testosterone production.
– Enjoy frequent intimate indulgences! Physical intimacy triggers numerous chemical reactions within our brains, and ALL ARE HEALTHY! Among many other physiological resources, this is most definitely a use it or lose it. Studies show that men 65+ who are sexually active at least 2x per week are happier, more vibrant, have healthier body composition, and are less likely to suffer from depression than those who are not.
– Get your straight-8 every night. A well-rested body going into the day is more energetic, the mind is clearer, you are more likely to follow through with your exercise and physical activities, and the hormone balance that supports virility is higher.
– See your doctor regularly. Far too often, men do not proactively manage their health and often suffer adverse consequences unnecessarily. In addition, candid conversations with your doctor regarding your male health are likely to yield medical avenues for preservation or enhancement if necessary. When it comes to your health, shelf your pride and go!
Gentlemen, consider yourselves armed with valuable information that will leave you feeling rewarded many times over with just a few simple changes and healthy reminders.
Ladies, please share this article with the men in your world from a loving and supporting perspective, as it is you who ultimately provide the greatest inspiration!
My dear friend and former Oklahoma client George demonstrating that the body ages according to how it is cared for, even at age 76!
Joe Carson B.S. NASM-CPT/FAS/CN
Master Trainer/Functional Aging Specialist/Certified Nutritionist
Twenty-First Century Aging