By Isabelle Nunn, Head Nutritionist

Men’s Health- Why You Need to Prioritise Your Health

It is International Men’s Health Month - celebrated every June this annual event focuses on awareness, education, prevention and family!

 In our busy lives it can be challenging to put our own health and wellness at the forefront. Men’s Health Month is a perfect opportunity to prioritize your personal health and fitness goals.

Whether your focus is on reducing stress, building resilience, optimising fitness levels, increasing cognitive performance or boosting fertility, nutrition and lifestyle factors can go a long way in supporting your wellness objectives.

Why You Need to Give Yourself an M.O.T

Men are less likely than women to reach out for help when suffering from psychological stress or physical issues, they have more of a tendency to keep what they are feeling inside and ignore signs and symptoms. This month the Men’s Health Forum says it is time to give yourself an M.O.T! They recommend, take notice of what's going on in your body and mind- go and see your GP if you're concerned about any symptoms. This month is also a great time to renew and restore healthy habits. The warmer summer days offer an opportunity to spend more time outdoors to rest, play, exercise and enjoy fresh seasonal foods.

 

· How to Bridge the Gap

According to stats from the Health Survey for England (2018), only a quarter (25%) of men are likely to be consuming the officially recommended 5 or more portions of fruit and veggies a day. These figures suggest that most men are not getting their optimum intake of the vital nutrients and antioxidants that a varied plant-rich diet supplies. Times of physical and psychological stress can place a high demand on nutrients in the body –especially B vitamins and vitamin C.

To bridge the nutrition gap, a wholefood formula specifically targeted to meet men’s health needs can be a useful supplement. myKind Organics Men's Multivitamin  supplies 14 key nutrients from real nutritious whole foods including great amounts of B vitamins for overall energy support and heart health, plus zinc that plays an important role in healthy fertility and immunity. This unique vegan formula is made from over 30 powdered fruits, vegetables and herbs and is certified organic.

· Why Do We Need Essential Fatty Acids?

Omega essential fatty acids are an important part of a healthy diet. Not only do they contribute to good heart health, but research also suggests that omega fatty acids support normal anti-inflammatory processes in the body. Nutritionists often believe that one of the key drivers behind lifestyle related health issues is chronic inflammation. Adequate omega-3 levels may also be beneficial for brain health, preconception planning and male fertility. Omega-3 is found in oily fish such as sardines and mackerel. Alternatively, choose a plant-based omega oil with Nutiva Organic Hemp Seed Oil. Cold-pressed and unrefined, this high-quality oil is certified organic and non-GMO verified. Add to smoothies, juices and drizzle on food.

· What Do We Mean By Powering UP with Antioxidants?

Factors such as stress, smoking, a high sugar diet, alcohol, pesticides and air pollution can contribute to free radical production in your body. Over a period of time oxidative stress from free radicals may lead to ageing and degenerative illness. Foods such as turmeric, berries, tomatoes, green tea and green veggies can increase the antioxidant capacity of your body and thus help protect your body from excess free radicals.

Organic Turmeric powder, also known as golden spice, can be added to smoothies, lattes and savoury recipes. Try Organic Traditions Antioxidant Berry Blast Smoothie Mix supplying turmeric, omegas, probiotics and super fruits…

· How to Improve Your Resilience Naturally

Siberian Ginseng is a long-revered botanical traditionally used and thought to support energy levels, stamina, physical endurance and male fertility. Classified by herbalists as an adaptogen, it contains bio-active compounds know as eleutherosides that are thought to be responsible for its supportive actions. Nature's Answer Siberian Ginseng is a pure, concentrated herbal extract of this time-tested botanical in an alcohol-free liquid format that allows for fast and efficient delivery.

Any claims in this article are not intended to diagnose, prevent, treat or cure any diseases. A food supplement is not a substitute for a healthy balanced diet and lifestyle

References:

·  https://www.menshealthforum.org.uk/

·  http://healthsurvey.hscic.gov.uk/data-visualisation/data-visualisation/explore-the-trends/fruit-vegetables.aspx