June is Men's Health Month: Prioritizing Well-being at Bastyr Clinics

June is National Men’s Health Month, an opportunity to shine a light on the unique health challenges faced by men and to inspire proactive steps toward healthier living. At Bastyr University Clinics, we recognize the significance of this month in encouraging men to prioritize their well-being. In this article, we'll delve into some of the critical health issues men commonly encounter, underscore the importance of holistic approaches to treatment, and provide actionable steps for better health.

Testosterone

Testosterone, a vital hormone for men's health. It influences various bodily functions, including muscle strength, sexual function, mood regulation, and cognitive abilities. As men age, testosterone levels naturally decline, a process known as "andropause." This decline can lead to symptoms such as reduced energy, diminished libido, muscle loss, and mood changes. While some of these changes are part of the normal aging process, low testosterone levels that lead to significant negative effects can be addressed through medical intervention.

To maintain healthy testosterone levels, lifestyle factors play a crucial role. Strategies such as strength training, maintaining balanced blood sugar levels to prevent diabetes, managing stress to reduce cortisol levels, ensuring adequate intake of key vitamins and minerals like magnesium, B vitamins, zinc, selenium, and vitamin D, prioritizing quality sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding nicotine, and considering supplements like ginger root and berberine can all contribute to overall well-being and hormone balance.

Cardiovascular Health

Heart disease remains a leading cause of mortality among men, with risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and sedentary lifestyles significantly increasing the likelihood of cardiovascular issues. To promote heart health, men should prioritize regular exercise, adopt a balanced diet, manage weight effectively, undergo routine screenings, avoid smoking, and consider heart-healthy dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet.

Prostate Health

Maintaining prostate health is another critical aspect of men's well-being. Conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer can impact quality of life. Regular screenings, such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests, along with a healthy lifestyle, are essential for early detection and appropriate management of prostate-related issues.

Mental Health

Mental health is integral to overall well-being, yet many men face barriers in seeking help due to societal expectations and stigma. At Bastyr University Clinic, we offer counseling services in a safe and confidential environment to help men address mental health concerns and develop healthier coping strategies.

The Role of Nutrition

Nutrition plays a pivotal role in maintaining good health, with certain dietary patterns significantly reducing the risk of heart disease. Men can benefit from adopting heart-healthy diets like the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

This Men’s Health Month, let’s prioritize well-being and take steps toward a healthier, happier future. Book an appointment at Bastyr University Clinics and embark on a journey to optimal health.

Timothy Schwaiger, ND, MA, Chief Medical Director/Executive Director of Clinical Operations, Professor, Department of Naturopathic Medicine