Menopause is a condition usually associated with women, occurring in a woman when her ovaries cease to produce adequate amounts of estrogen and she stops menstruating. As a consequence, many women can experience a wide variety of physical symptoms including night sweats and mood changes. On the other hand, male menopause has not always been taken seriously as a health concern by the medical community. Actor John Wayne once described male menopause as being a lot more fun than female menopause. With female menopause you gain weight and get hot flashes. Male menopause - you get to date young girls and drive motorcycles.

The fact is, that male menopause or (Andropause) is a physiological condition produced in men when their testes fail to secrete adequate levels of the sex hormone, testosterone. It can be similar to female menopause, but with some distinct differences. For example, while the levels of testosterone in men diminish gradually after age 40, women can experience a sudden drop in their estrogen levels. Unlike menopausal women who usually can no longer become pregnant, menopausal men can continue to father children.

Approximately 40% of men between the ages of 40 and 60 may experience symptoms of male menopause that include: lethargy; depression; increased irritability; nervousness; mood swings; increased abdominal fat; insomnia, decreased libido and a loss in lean body mass and bone mass.

While some men elect to try testosterone replacement therapy, it is not without health risk and requires careful medical supervision. Men can do much to help themselves get through midlife crisis. Many health experts suggest that a variety of beneficial lifestyle changes and certain dietary supplements such as calcium, vitamin D, B-vitamins and Sam-e, may have an enormous impact on men's health, rather than simply worrying about their testosterone levels.

For example, just like their female counterparts, menopausal males are not immune to osteoporosis, bone fractures and an increased risk of heart attacks. Taking calcium and vitamin D supplements, combined with regular weight bearing exercises and a balanced diet (low in saturated fat and high in fruit and vegetables) have been shown to support healthy bone strength. B-complex supplements help fuel the body with essential nutrients needed for energy and heart health, especially heart-healthy vitamins B-6, B12 and folic acid. SAM-e is described as a mood elevator. This naturally occurring compound has been shown to help improve symptoms in people suffering from mild or moderate depression. What's more, such health saboteurs as smoking and excessive drinking need to be addressed. If you smoke - stop. Moderate consumption of alcohol is defined as one-half drink to two drinks per day.

As universal awareness grows concerning this transitional phase in a man's life, a deeper understanding, spiritual focus and supportive assistance from those around him will become the essential factors in the success of his Second Adulthood.

Source: Naturemade

Medicine