Just like women, men also experience a period of intense hormonal fluctuations as they age. Testosterone levels fluctuate dramatically, leading to a decrease and the onset of symptoms similar to menopause.
Male menopause occurs later than female menopause, generally between the ages of 55 to 65.
During male menopause, symptoms such as insomnia, vivid dreams, hot flashes, night sweats, and irritability similar to those seen in women may appear. However, men tend to be better at controlling their emotions, so these symptoms may not always be visible. Nevertheless, this does not mean they are not suffering physically and they should receive understanding and support from those around them.
Male menopause: Solve 5 dietary issues early to end menopause earlier
Similar to female menopause, male menopause symptoms are more pronounced during periods of intense testosterone fluctuations. As testosterone gradually decreases towards the later stages and stabilizes overall, the symptoms also diminish.
During male menopause, social engagements are often frequent, and life stress is high, exacerbating physiological reactions to menopause. By giving up these unhealthy habits early, physical reactions can be mitigated, potentially making it easier to navigate through this phase.
1. Drinking alcohol socially
Alcohol consumption not only harms the body’s organs but also poses significant health risks. It can also lead to impulsivity post-consumption. The saying “drinking to drown sorrows only brings more sorrows” holds true.
For men in this age group experiencing menopause, social drinking may be inevitable. However, aging reduces the body’s ability to metabolize alcohol, so abstaining from alcohol is best advised. If consumption is necessary, understanding one’s limits is crucial.
2. Irregular eating habits
Having three regular meals ensures the body receives necessary energy. Regular mealtimes promote metabolic activities and enhance nutrient absorption and utilization. Disrupting this routine can affect normal metabolism.
For men in this phase, having timely and moderate meals is best, avoiding skipping breakfast and late-night snacks, and other unhealthy eating habits.
3. Binge eating
Eating too quickly without proper chewing or overeating constitutes binge eating. This exerts pressure on the stomach, impeding food digestion and absorption, potentially leading to overconsumption of calories and obesity.
Men undergoing menopause are undergoing a “revolution” in their bodies, and it’s important to reduce stress on the body. Chew food properly, eat until 70-80% full, especially during dinner.
4. Picky or imbalanced diet
As taste sensations decline with age, individuals tend to prefer strongly flavored foods like barbecued meats, fried foods, and hotpots, which are high in fat, salt, and sugar.
This predisposes nutrient deficiencies and excess intake, burdening metabolism and hindering digestion and absorption. Emphasizing a balanced diet with light, easily digestible foods, incorporating fresh vegetables and fruits daily, is advised.
5. Sleeping immediately after eating
Sleeping immediately after eating is harmful to the body. Some men have a habit of eating supper late or returning home late after socializing, making it hard to avoid this, which is not ideal.
It’s recommended to have a light, easily digestible dinner, leaving a gap of at least 2 hours before sleep. Alongside ensuring balanced nutrition, focus on protein and calcium intake, and stay hydrated.
In addition to dietary concerns, certain lifestyle habits urgently need correction, such as late nights, prolonged physical fatigue, excessive indulgence, excessive work pressure, and so forth.
In conclusion, men in menopause need to control their diet, organize work sensibly, engage in communication, share concerns, manage stress levels, and maintain a relaxed, joyful body to smoothly navigate this phase. Regular health check-ups should not be overlooked. These are some suggestions for middle-aged and elderly men, with respect for your endurance.
