When
it comes to health care, we men are like ostriches. We bury our heads
in the sand. We are much less likely than women to visit our doctors
regularly, take symptoms seriously and live a healthful lifestyle. Maybe
that’s one reason why women have a seven-year average survival
advantage on us!
Yet it’s obviously important that men of
all ages become more proactive about their health. And an easy way to
start is to follow these basic steps to maintaining health and
vitality.
1. Eliminate “White Foods” from Your
Diet. White flour, white sugar and other processed foods are not only
devoid of vitamins and minerals, but they’ve also been stripped of their
natural fibre. As a result, they rapidly drive up blood sugar levels,
which contributes to weight gain, diabetes and a host of other health
problems. Avoid breads and baked goods made with white flour,
sugar-laden sodas and snack foods. Instead, focus on eating fibre-rich
fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains.
2. Stay Away from Dangerous Trans Fats.
While it’s important to reduce your overall fat intake, it’s even more
important to watch the types of fat you eat. Deep-fried foods and
anything made with hydrogenated oils (margarine, peanut butter,
shortening, store-bought pastries and cookies) contain trans fats that
raise your risk of heart disease. Eat only healthful fats, such as olive
oil and the omega-3 oils found in salmon and other cold-water fish,
which actually protect against heart disease.
3. Take a Potent Daily Multivitamin and
Mineral Supplement. Although there is no substitute for a good diet, I
am convinced that for optimal nutrition, you need to take a high-potency
multivitamin and mineral supplement. Even if you are eating right, it’s
unlikely that your food contains all the nutrients you need. Poor soil
quality, storage, processing and cooking deplete our food of vitamins
and minerals. Taking a high quality daily supplement is “health
insurance” against possible deficiencies.
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