Man up and take control of your health

Do you want to be fit, healthy and strong in your senior years? Of course you do. Make it a reality by prioritising your health before age-related wear and tear sets in.

Power up with protein

There’s something so wholesome-sounding about wholegrain cereal, but don’t be fooled. Most commercial cereals (yes, even the wholegrain varieties) are loaded with additives, including sugar. To boost energy levels and muscle mass, start your day with protein. The trick is to ensure your breakfast of choice is convenient – if it’s complicated or time consuming you’ll soon revert to the convenience of boxed food. Try these:

• Greek yoghurt with nuts and berries. Add a teaspoon of psyllium husk powder for a fibre boost (available at health-food stores and selected supermarkets).
• Grain-free granola. Most store-bought granola is high in sugar. Search the internet for home-made recipes. Store in airtight containers for breakfast-on-the-go.
• Easy eggs. Whether scrambled, fried, poached or boiled, eggs satisfy and sustain. Enjoy with leftover roasted veggies to enhance the flavour and boost the meal’s nutrient profile.

Don’t ignore ED

Research suggests that up to 52 percent of men over the age of 40 will suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED) at some point in their lives. Causes vary but may include certain medications, hormonal factors, nerve damage, excessive alcohol intake, smoking, diabetes, psychological trauma and stress. While it’s not an easy subject to broach with a partner or even a doctor, open communication is the first step to seeking treatment. Often ED improves once the underlying health concern is addressed.

Just do it

Workout, that is. If you don’t exercise regularly you’ll lose a considerable amount of muscle mass over the years. Moderate, regular exercise will keep your muscles firm and your brain sharp – do you really need any better motivation than that?

Watch out for the black dog

According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), depression in men is on the rise in South Africa. Sadly men tend to be wary of seeking help for mental health issues and may become increasingly frustrated, discouraged, angry or irritable as their depression becomes progressively worse. Many turn to drugs and alcohol in despair. Don’t allow this happen to you – seek help when you first recognise the symptoms - early intervention makes depression much easier to treat. Chat to your GP or contact SADAG (www.sadag.org) for help.

Keep your coffee clean

Fancy caramel lattes and creamy coffees are kilojoule bombs and are best avoided if your goal is ‘lean and mean’. Take your coffee like a man – no milk, no sugar. Drink a cup an hour before working out for a guaranteed performance boost, compliments of the caffeine.

What’s your number?

As you age it becomes increasingly important to keep an eye on your health indicators. Early intervention means a better chance at successful treatment and a longer, healthier lifespan. Bankmed offers cholesterol screening, blood sugar screening, blood pressure measurement, prostate specific antigen testing and faecal occult blood tests at 100% of the Scheme rate. Limitations apply. Consult your 2016 Benefit & Contribution Schedule for details pertaining to your plan.