November is prostate cancer awareness month. We all know it’s that time of year when our co-workers and friends start growing that moustache that they normally would not dare to grow any other time of year. Other than raising money for a noble cause, moustaches in November provide awareness for men’s health. Guys are notorious for ignoring their health until it becomes too serious or bothersome forcing them to seek help.  There is this idea of going to a doctor for an annual health check and physical is a sign of weakness. However, with initiatives like movember and a shift in the culture of our society, more men are starting to pay attention to their health and are adopting preventative health practices.

There are some key motivators for men when it comes to health. Traditionally, it has been when their symptoms become too serious or unbearable they seek medical help. However, another powerful motivator is the ability to perform at the highest possible level. Men are driven by competition and performance in the workplace, on the athletic field, in the gym and even in the bedroom. When we can’t do things well anymore it forces us into decisive action. This article will highlight the top 3 nutritional and supplemental recommendations for men to maximize their performance in all aspects of their lives. If you have trouble staying focused, are too tired, or lack stamina this article will give you natural options to boost you back up to your optimal performance. Read on to find out more.

Top 3 Foods for Men’s health

Pomegranate and beet juice

Your problem: Poor blood flow

Cardiovascular disease is public enemy number one because it’s the leading cause of death among men. Pomegranate and beet juice are the ultimate duo to improve blood flow and heart health. There been a number of published studies showing that pomegranate and beet juice can lower blood pressure, iincrease exercise stamina and improve erectile dysfunction. Both these juices (taken together or separately) are a man’s secret weapons for optimal performance in the gym and in the bedroom.

Tomatoes

Your problem: Cancer

Cooked tomatoes contain a powerful anti-cancer nutrient called lycopene. It is specific to men because studies have found that it inhibits cancer cells in the prostate. Its can also improve overall prostate health by reducing PSA (a marker of prostate health) and abnormal prostate enlargement. It’s important to note that the highest amounts are found in cooked tomatoes rather than the fresh fruit.

Pumpkin Seeds

Your problem: Prostate enlargement and poor sleep

Pumpkin seeds are a super food for men. They are packed with essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin E, magnesium and zinc. Additionally they contain phytosterols that can lower cholesterol and reduce symptoms of prostate enlargement like frequent and nighttime urination. They also a good source of protein for muscle recovery plus they contain the amino acid L-tryptophan which helps promote good sleep and relaxation. They are great snack option for men on the go.

Top 3 Supplements for Men’s health

Korean Ginseng

Your problem: Low energy and high stress

Often called the “king of herbs,” ginseng has been used for centuries in Asian cultures as the most important men’s health herb. Research is now starting to unveil its many benefits including increasing resistance to stress, combating fatigue and reducing the incidence the cold and flu. Recently there have been a number of studies that have shown benefit for heart health and improvement of erectile dysfunction. Use this herb for to increase stamina in all aspects of your life but use it only for 2 months at a time before taking a break for a few weeks.

Acetyl L-carnitine

Your problem: Poor memory and energy

Recently Dr Oz featured acetyl L-carnitine as a weight loss supplement. However, the majority of the research on this power nutrient is on improving memory and cellular energy. Additionally, it protects the heart, blood vessels and nerves from free radial damage. One of my favorite benefits of acetyl L-carnitine is its ability to reduce muscle soreness after exercise. Its broad range of powerful benefits makes its a jack-of-all-trades when it comes to men’s health.

Rye grass pollen extract

Your problem: enlarged prostate and frequent urination

When it comes to prostate health and BPH (benign prostate hyperplasia) the most well known herb is saw palmetto. While saw palmetto is a traditional favorite with a long history of prostate benefits but a lesser-known extract from rye grass packs an even more powerful effect in reducing symptoms of prostate enlargement. Studies have shown it reduces symptoms such nighttime urination, frequency, incomplete voiding and it even may reduce prostate size. Try is as an alternative to or in combination with saw palmetto.

If you are a man that wants to take your health and performance to the next level consider the above options as powerful health allies.  They give you a good starting place but if you really want a personalized performance health plan visit a Naturopathic doctor for advanced care for men’s health issues. I would also strongly consider getting a personalized health check-up with a qualified healthcare practitioner. Even though it flies in the face of the usual male approach, prevention is the best medicine. Purebalance wellness centre is offering a complementary men’s health check up for the month of November. Come check us out so we can check you out and get you on track for optimal health.

Happy Movember!

Dr Paul Hrkal