6 things a man can do for a longer, healthier and happier life #movember
The general wisdom that old age comes with defects is only half true: the defects are there, but we are getting older and older. And that goes especially for women. On average, women live 4 to 5 years longer than men. This has been the case for decades, but the question is: why? And can men do something to close that gap?
Why do men live less long than women
A lot of research has been done into the difference in longevity between men and women, but an exact answer still remains unclear. “It’s a mystery,” writes researcher Susan Alberts in an article by Scientas. “If we can make life last so long, why can’t we narrow the gap between the lifespan of men and women? There are scientists who think the difference is due to the number of white blood cells. Compared to men, women lose relatively few important white blood cells as they get older. As a result, their immune system, and possibly other body processes, continue to function properly for longer. Another possibility is that men’s lifespan lags behind, because they are more likely to exhibit risky behavior than women. For example, men smoke and drink more on average than women and are more likely to be overweight. Another study is looking for a biological explanation in hormones. The female hormone estrogen is known to strengthen the immune system. The presence of estrogen also protects the blood vessels, while testosterone actually increases the risk of various fatal diseases (New Scientist, 2020).
A healthy lifestyle is key
Although it remains difficult to identify a specific cause, men can do their bit to close the age gap somewhat. Because, of course, living a healthy lifestyle plays an important role in reaching a higher age. Those who do not smoke, do not suffer from obesity and have a healthy blood pressure, live an average of six years longer. Researchers from the Erasmus Medical Center Rotterdam came to this conclusion last year after having studied the data of thousands of people for years (NOS,2019). “You can’t change when you die, you can’t change when you die, but you can change the path to death’’, says research leader and professor of epidemiologist Arfan Ikram in an article by the NRC. ‘’You can influence the time that you live in good health, or the time that you live with one or more conditions. You can also influence the time in the run-up to your death..’’
And that’s fortunate, because that means that, despite the hormonal and genetic differences, we can stretch our age somewhat by adopting a healthy lifestyle. But how exactly? We have listed the most important advice below.
6 things a man can do for a longer, healthier and happier life
1. Eat healthy
It’s an open door, but by eating a varied diet you ensure yourself of the intake of as many different nutrients as possible. And by that we mean: choose fresh and unprocessed food as much as possible. In this way you avoid unnecessary intake of sugars, sodium and chemical additives. When at least 50% of your food intake consists of vegetables, you will get as many vitamins, minerals and fibers as possible in a natural way that will only benefit your health. Especially now!
2. Get moving
Summer, autumn, winter or spring: keep moving at all times. Make sure you move at least half an hour a day. If possible, take the bike and take the stairs rather than the elevator. A small difference, but it’s those small adjustments that can make the difference in the end. In addition, we advise you to move intensively at least 2 to 3 times a week (combination of power/cardio);
3. Avoid stress
Stress is not good for anyone. It can suppress the body’s defenses (and therefore also the gums), and you consume more of your own vitamins and minerals under the influence of stress. Try to reduce stress through movement wherever possible, relaxation and a good night’s sleep.
4. Maintain connection
Life consists of making choices and setting priorities. However, don’t forget to stay in touch with your friends on a regular basis – not just for yourself, but also for them. A terminated relationship, losing a job, money problems or the birth of a child are all great things that can happen to you as a man. It is important that you acknowledge the effect of those events and that you know that it is good to talk about them.
5. Research your heredity
Your family’s medical history is one of the best ways to understand your own health. This hereditary burden can affect your life. Think of the risk of cancer, diabetes, heart disease, strokes, plus all sorts of other diseases. It starts with a conversation; talk to your family and pay attention to illnesses that a close relative has had. Don’t forget to ask about deceased family members. If you know how you are inherited you can see how you can reduce the risks. Also talk to your family doctor.
6. Listen to your body
You know your own body better than anyone. If you feel that something is not right, do not wait in the hope that it will disappear by itself. Go to the doctor and have it examined. Early detection is the most important step in the treatment of major problems. And don’t let it get the better of you. Your feeling is usually right, so react to it accordingly.
These were just some guidelines for a healthy lifestyle. Curious about even more effective and healthy tips? You’ll find them here.
Movember
This article was written n the context of Movember. This is an annual event to draw attention to prostate cancer, testicular cancer and male health in general.