The Balanced Man

Maintaining physical, emotional, and even spiritual balance is considered by most experts to be critically important in the pursuit of optimal health, vitality and fulfillment in life. However, when exploring the topic, invariably, the discussions usually focus on the efforts of women—not men. The fact is that men need balance, too. Studies indicate that men that lead more balanced lives tend to be better husbands, fathers, coworkers and friends. Moreover, since June is recognized as Men’s Health Education and Awareness Month, what better time to explore this very important topic?

As is the case for many women, men must also address the numerous challenges that often obstruct the road to finding balance. Stress, which can be crippling, is one of those. It can be induced by numerous sources—both internal and external—such as fear, anxiety, relational and occupational issues, financial challenges, poor dietary choices and illness—all of which can result in serious complications and imbalance. Sustained stress, anxiety and poor food choices can result in inflammation in the body—the basis of many common diseases and conditions, such as high cholesterol, weight gain, blood clots, high blood pressure and more.

Dietary selections directly impact gut health, where inflammation often begins. The gut is the digestive tract, which includes the stomach, intestines, pancreas, liver and gallbladder. With approximately 80 percent of the body’s immune system located in the gut and more than 90 percent of its serotonin (the happiness hormone) produced there, the gut is vital to proper bodily functions. It also has many of the same nerve structures and neurotransmitters as the brain.

Good gut health can contribute to improved immunity and more stable, calmer and happier moods. Studies indicate that the bacteria found in the gut (often referred to as gut microbiome) influence how the brain is wired from infancy to adulthood, directly affecting the ability to learn and memorize.

Better dietary choices are important in a man’s pursuit of proper physiological and emotional balance. Troubling health statistics indicate that the “meat and potatoes” man of our day must come to terms with the reality of some very hard truths. Many digestive issues can be traced to a consistently poor diet, which can either feed the bad gut bacteria or kill the good gut bacteria. Processed foods, like fast foods, sugar, artificial sweeteners, caffeine and boxed meals, can be counterproductive, and even harmful. Real (living) foods are the key. By adding fermented probiotic- (good bacteria) rich foods, such as sauerkraut, homemade yogurt, water kefir, or cultured fruits and veggies, a man can greatly enhance his quality of life. When balance is achieved, the resulting dividends often include more energy, drive, motivation and enthusiasm to invest.    

There are a wide range of simple and practical steps that men can employ in the pursuit of the balanced life. For the busy man, cooking may not be feasible, so the power shake could be a more attractive option. Great shakes often include veggies (either a high-quality greens powder mix or fresh veggies) and fruit. Protein from hemp hearts, good quality whey or chia seeds are also great shake ingredients that promote good health.

Quality oils, like flax oil or olive oil, along with a hydrolyzed collagen, help with joint health and serve as natural energy boosters. Other great health options include authentic sea salt; good fats, like coconut oil; reasonably sized protein portions; and naturally colored vegetables. On the contrary, corn and white potatoes are not very beneficial to digestive health. Additionally, by simply eliminating or limiting grain and dairy intake, the body’s functions can be greatly improved. Much of today’s grain is genetically altered and proves difficult for the body to process and digest.

Planning ahead can prove to be a tremendous advantage. Men can perhaps make a few meals over the weekend and freeze them for later in the week. Many men have enjoyed great results by exchanging just one processed meal a week with a healthier, homemade option.

As is the case with women, men have the power to make the tough dietary and lifestyle choices necessary to achieve the balanced life. And by finding one’s balance, everybody wins: family, friends and everyone in between.

For more information about better health or finding balance, call About Your Health at 803-798-8687 or visit AboutYourHealth.com.