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The age of 40 is a period in the life of men when major changes start taking place in their body, metabolism and hormonal balance. Irregular eating habits or lifestyle negligence in the age of 20 and 30 may not show immediate effect, but as soon as men cross the age of 40, the body starts giving warnings from inside. After this age, one of the biggest health challenges faced by men includes enlargement of the ‘Prostate Gland’, problems related to urine and decline in energy and stamina in the body. Modern medical science and dieticians clearly believe that if men make some scientific and nutritional changes in their diet after the age of 40, then they can keep themselves completely healthy, active and energetic even at this stage of age. Let us know in detail in this article which are those 5 superfoods which must be in the plate of every man after 40 and how they help in keeping the prostate healthy.
Why do the nutritional needs of men’s body change after the age of 40?
When a man crosses the age of 40, the level of testosterone hormone in his body naturally starts decreasing. Along with this, digestion process slows down, muscle density starts decreasing and the risk of problems like heart health and prostate cancer or BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) starts increasing. At this age, the body needs nutrients that can reduce oxidative stress, repair cells and prevent hormonal imbalance. If there is a deficiency of anti-oxidants, zinc, lycopene and healthy fats in the diet during this period, the body starts aging prematurely and many serious diseases start affecting the body. Therefore, after the age of 40, food needs to be made not just a means to fill the stomach but also an insurance on one’s health.
First superfood: Tomatoes and things rich in lycopene which protect the prostate
Whenever it comes to maintaining prostate health, the first name that comes to mind is ‘Tomatoes’. A powerful antioxidant called ‘Lycopene’ is found in abundance in tomatoes, which is considered most effective in protecting the cells of the prostate gland from any kind of damage. Scientific research has proven that men who regularly consume tomatoes or products made from them (such as soup or puree) significantly reduce the risk of serious prostate problems as they age. The bio-availability of lycopene increases further in cooked tomatoes, so adding it to your vegetable or salad daily is no less than a boon for men after 40.
Second superfood: Pumpkin seeds which are a treasure trove of zinc and minerals.
Pumpkin seeds may be small, but they are no less than a medicine for men’s health. Zinc and phytosterols are found in abundance in these seeds, which play a very important role in controlling the size of the prostate gland and its proper functioning. Men who are deficient in zinc in their body often have to face problems like swelling related to prostate or obstruction in urination. Eating a handful of pumpkin seeds daily not only keeps the prostate healthy, but also strengthens the immunity of men and also improves reproductive health. You can easily make it a part of your daily diet as a snack.
Third superfood: fatty fish and walnuts rich in omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 Fatty Acids are an essential nutrient for heart health and brain as well as for reducing prostate inflammation. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel or for those who are vegetarian, walnuts, flax seeds and chia seeds are excellent sources. After the age of 40, internal inflammation (Chronic Inflammation) starts increasing in the body, which is the root of many diseases. Omega-3 fatty acids neutralize this inflammation and keep prostate tissues healthy by improving blood circulation. Consuming these at least two-three times a week keeps both the heart and prostate of men young.
Fourth and fifth superfood: Green leafy vegetables and broccoli which detoxify the body.
Including green leafy vegetables like broccoli, cabbage and spinach in the diet should be mandatory for men after 40. Components like ‘Sulforaphane’ are found in broccoli, which helps in fighting cancer cells and detoxifying the body. Apart from this, vitamin C, magnesium and fiber present in green vegetables strengthen the digestive system and keep weight under control. Obesity is also a major factor in increasing prostate problems, hence consumption of vegetables provides double protection by keeping weight under control.
Get a long healthy life by changing lifestyle and eating right.
Eating only these five foods will not suffice, but you will also have to bring some positive changes in your lifestyle. Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol, smoking, junk food and refined sugar is poison for both the prostate and the heart. Drink adequate amount of water, walk or exercise for at least 30 minutes daily and do not let stress overwhelm you. If men become a little disciplined about their eating habits after the age of 40, they can enjoy the best, energetic and healthy years of their lives without any medical problems.