Men's Health: Focus on Liver, Not Just Kidneys, in Middle Age
Men's Health: Focus on Liver, Not Just Kidneys, in Middle Age
Editor's Note: "Health is the foundation of a revolution," but in the busy hustle and bustle of life, people often prioritize work and social engagements over their health, neglecting this crucial aspect of their well-being. In reality, with a little attention and preventive measures, good health can be right at your fingertips. People's Health presents the "Health Insights You Should Know" column, dedicated to collecting and organizing health knowledge that often goes unnoticed, serving as your health knowledge hub to help you stay healthy.
Middle-aged men, pay attention to your liver health first! Here's what the experts recommend.
As soon as men enter their middle age, their health often starts to decline. They may experience weight gain, reduced physical and mental energy, among other issues. So, what should they do to maintain their health during this time?
Many people might immediately think of kidney tonics, but is that really the best approach? Not necessarily. According to traditional Chinese medicine, the kidneys are considered the foundation of one's constitution, and it's acceptable for older men with kidney deficiency to supplement them appropriately. However, middle-aged men do not necessarily need to join the kidney-tonic craze. What they most need to do is take care of their liver.
The liver plays a crucial role in regulating the body's processes. It governs the smooth flow of emotions, dislikes stagnation, and promotes the downward movement of vital energy. Liver function is closely related to digestion, blood circulation, and emotional well-being.
If the liver's function is compromised, it can disrupt the body's energy and blood circulation, leading to various health issues such as indigestion and high blood pressure. Additionally, middle-aged men often face high levels of psychological stress due to career and family responsibilities, which can result in liver qi stagnation and emotional disturbances, leading to irritability, anger, and anxiety, among other psychological problems. Furthermore, frequent social engagements, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and the prevalence of hepatitis viruses among men can all pose risks to the liver, making it susceptible to various liver diseases.
So, how can you protect your liver?
One of the most direct methods is regular exercise. Here's an acupressure technique you can try.
Step 1: Rub the Taixi Acupoint. Sit cross-legged with bare feet. Use your left thumb to press and rotate the Taixi acupoint on your right foot (located on the outer side of the base of the big toe nail). Rotate clockwise 15 times and then counterclockwise 15 times. Repeat this on the left foot with your right hand.
Step 2: Press the Taichong Acupoint. Sit cross-legged and use your left thumb to press the Taichong acupoint on your right foot (located between the first and second toe bones on the top of the foot). Press and slide along the gap between the bones 20 times. Repeat on the left foot with your right hand.
Step 3: Rub the Sanyinjiao Acupoint. Sit cross-legged and use your left thumb to press and rotate the Sanyinjiao acupoint on your right leg (3 inches above the inner ankle bone, along the posterior edge of the shinbone). Rotate clockwise 15 times and then counterclockwise 15 times. Repeat on the left leg with your right hand.
Step 4: Push and Rub the Ribs. Place both hands under your armpits and rub along the gaps between the ribs until your hands touch in front of your chest. Repeat this back-and-forth motion 30 times. [Details]
In middle age, men need to protect themselves not only from unhealthy diets but also from the four major cancers!
Some say middle age is the most glorious time of one's life, but it's also the period when health often takes a backseat without us realizing it. At this life juncture, preventing cancer becomes crucial.
Beware of Colorectal Cancer If You Have a Big Belly
Many men enjoy social gatherings at night, indulging in barbecue, beer, fatty meats, and alcoholic drinks. Long-term consumption of low-fiber, high-fat, high-protein foods, excessive intake of pickled and grilled foods, and frequent alcohol consumption can significantly increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
Dr. Zhuang Jing, Deputy Director and Chief Physician of the Department of General Surgery at Henan Cancer Hospital, recommends slowing down while eating, consciously increasing the intake of vegetables, legumes, and staple foods, reducing the consumption of red meat (such as pork, lamb, and beef), and spending at least half of the week having simple home-cooked meals. This approach is both healthy and allows you to spend quality time with your family. It's also advisable to avoid overeating, engage in regular physical activity (at least five times a week, with each session lasting 20-30 minutes), and quit smoking if you are a smoker.
Heavy Smokers Risk Lung and Heart Damage
After the age of 40, the damage caused by smoking to the lungs and heart becomes more severe. Research has found that men aged 65 and older have twice the risk of stroke due to smoking compared to those under 65.
Dr. Qin Jianjun, Deputy Director and Chief Physician of the Department of Thoracic Surgery at Henan Cancer Hospital, points out that smoking is closely related to lung cancer. Smokers with a smoking history of over 20 years, those who smoke over 20 cigarettes per day on average, people aged 40 and older with a long history of smoking, a family history of cancer, or those working in toxic and hazardous environments are all at high risk of lung cancer. These individuals should undergo annual CT scans at reputable hospitals, as this is an effective method for early detection of lung cancer. Quitting smoking as early as possible is highly recommended. You can divert your attention, reduce social gatherings, or get rid of smoking paraphernalia to quit smoking, or you can seek help from specialized smoking cessation clinics.
Excessive Stress Increases the Risk of Lymphoma
Middle-aged men are at the peak of their careers, but they also face the pressure of caring for their aging parents and educating their children. This can lead to psychological issues. Furthermore, middle-aged men are often the backbone of their organizations and frequently work overtime, leading irregular sleep patterns and increased psychological stress. These factors can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of cancer.
Dr. Li Yufu, Deputy Director and Chief Physician of the Department of Hematology at Henan Cancer Hospital, points out that people under significant psychological stress are at a much higher risk of developing colon and rectal cancer compared to those with lower stress levels. "Workaholics" are also more susceptible to lymphoma. To reduce stress, men should free themselves from utilitarianism, add more leisure to their lives, learn simplicity and humility from their children, embrace sensitivity and passion from women, and relieve stress through moderate exercise. [Details]
Men with Larger Waistlines at Greater Risk of Diabetes
According to a new study published by the British Nutrition Society, men with waistlines exceeding 40 inches (approximately 102 centimeters) and women with waistlines exceeding 34.7 inches (approximately 88 centimeters) face a five-fold and three-fold increased risk of diabetes, respectively. In other words, men with larger waistlines are more susceptible to diabetes than women.
The study found that both men and women with waistlines measuring 31.5 to 34.5 inches (approximately 80 to 88 centimeters) and men with waistlines measuring 37 to 40 inches (approximately 94 to 102 centimeters) had an increased risk of developing diabetes. Approximately 90% of type 2 diabetes patients are either overweight or obese. Men in middle age should measure their waistlines regularly by locating the midpoint between the hip bone and the ribcage. [Details]
A Must-Read for Men! The Men's Health Checklist
Nutrition Expert: Eat Foods Rich in Zinc
Research shows that 65% of people aged 30 to 45 have imbalanced nutrition. Among them, many men are unaware of their unique nutritional needs. Dr. Wang Xingguo, Director of the Department of Nutrition at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, says, "For men, zinc is one of the most special and important nutrients."
Fitness Expert: Try Some Sit-Ups
For men, losing muscle is akin to losing the foundation of life to some extent. A study found that men lose approximately one-third of their muscle mass after entering middle age. If men over 40 cannot complete 10 push-ups or squat 19 times within 30 seconds, it indicates insufficient muscle strength.
Professor Guo Bo from the Department of Health Science at Xi'an Institute of Physical Education suggests that middle-aged men should focus on exercising different muscle groups, especially the abdominal area. Among the popular home fitness exercises in the United States, sit-ups are considered one of the most important exercises for strengthening the abdominal muscles. Sit-ups stimulate blood circulation in the abdominal area, which helps protect the internal organs in the abdominal cavity.
Urology Expert: Drink More Water to Protect the Prostate
The prostate is a unique organ in men, but it can cause occasional trouble. Data indicates that about 50% of men will experience prostate problems at some point in their lives.
Dr. Guo Jun, Chief Physician in the Department of Urology at West Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, suggests that drinking water is the simplest and most important way to protect the prostate. Ensure daily water intake of 1500 to 2000 milliliters, but try to consume most of it in the morning and afternoon, and reduce nighttime water consumption to avoid frequent urination at night, which can burden the prostate.
Cardiovascular Expert: Maintain a Light Diet
Statistically, due to the protective effect of estrogen, men develop cardiovascular diseases about ten years earlier than women, with a threefold higher risk of coronary heart disease than women. Additionally, the risk of stroke is slightly higher in men than in women.
Professor Xu Chengbin from the Heart Center at Peking University People's Hospital suggests that men should make an effort to reduce their cardiovascular disease risk. Firstly, consume a light diet; excessive salt intake can elevate blood pressure. Secondly, reduce the consumption of animal fats, as saturated fatty acids in fats can increase blood lipids and lead to diabetes. Thirdly, limit the consumption of cholesterol-rich animal organs. Fourthly, abstain from alcohol, as alcohol can raise triglyceride levels in the blood. Finally, do not smoke; smokers have a significantly higher incidence of hypertension and coronary heart disease than non-smokers. [Details]
Three Vegetables Men Should Eat: Broccoli, Tomatoes, and Spinach
Many men tend to scoff at fruits and vegetables as "feminine" foods, preferring meat instead. However, a report from the UK Food Research Institute suggests that consuming a certain amount of broccoli, tomatoes, and spinach each week can help prevent prostate cancer.
Broccoli: In a study conducted on humans for the first time, researchers found that those who ate four portions of broccoli per week developed "anticancer genes" that effectively prevent prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, second only to lung cancer, with 680,000 new cases and 220,000 deaths worldwide each year. Besides broccoli, other cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower and purple cabbage also have good anticancer effects and are worth including in your diet.
Tomatoes: Tomatoes are another essential food for men, as they are not only rich in vitamin C but also contain lycopene, which promotes prostate health.
Spinach: Spinach contains magnesium, which can convert carbohydrates in muscles into usable energy and increase muscle strength in men. For men, spinach also contains folic acid and iron, which can promote the synthesis of red blood cells, increase oxygen-carrying capacity, accelerate blood circulation, and ultimately improve the quality of their sex life. Therefore, men can eat more spinach. [Details]
Editor's Note: "Health is the foundation of a revolution," but in the busy hustle and bustle of life, people often prioritize work and social engagements over their health, neglecting this crucial aspect of their well-being. In reality, with a little attention and preventive measures, good health can be right at your fingertips. People's Health presents the "Health Insights You Should Know" column, dedicated to collecting and organizing health knowledge that often goes unnoticed, serving as your health knowledge hub to help you stay healthy.
Middle-aged men, pay attention to your liver health first! Here's what the experts recommend.
As soon as men enter their middle age, their health often starts to decline. They may experience weight gain, reduced physical and mental energy, among other issues. So, what should they do to maintain their health during this time?
Many people might immediately think of kidney tonics, but is that really the best approach? Not necessarily. According to traditional Chinese medicine, the kidneys are considered the foundation of one's constitution, and it's acceptable for older men with kidney deficiency to supplement them appropriately. However, middle-aged men do not necessarily need to join the kidney-tonic craze. What they most need to do is take care of their liver.
The liver plays a crucial role in regulating the body's processes. It governs the smooth flow of emotions, dislikes stagnation, and promotes the downward movement of vital energy. Liver function is closely related to digestion, blood circulation, and emotional well-being.
If the liver's function is compromised, it can disrupt the body's energy and blood circulation, leading to various health issues such as indigestion and high blood pressure. Additionally, middle-aged men often face high levels of psychological stress due to career and family responsibilities, which can result in liver qi stagnation and emotional disturbances, leading to irritability, anger, and anxiety, among other psychological problems. Furthermore, frequent social engagements, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and the prevalence of hepatitis viruses among men can all pose risks to the liver, making it susceptible to various liver diseases.
So, how can you protect your liver?
One of the most direct methods is regular exercise. Here's an acupressure technique you can try.
Step 1: Rub the Taixi Acupoint. Sit cross-legged with bare feet. Use your left thumb to press and rotate the Taixi acupoint on your right foot (located on the outer side of the base of the big toe nail). Rotate clockwise 15 times and then counterclockwise 15 times. Repeat this on the left foot with your right hand.
Step 2: Press the Taichong Acupoint. Sit cross-legged and use your left thumb to press the Taichong acupoint on your right foot (located between the first and second toe bones on the top of the foot). Press and slide along the gap between the bones 20 times. Repeat on the left foot with your right hand.
Step 3: Rub the Sanyinjiao Acupoint. Sit cross-legged and use your left thumb to press and rotate the Sanyinjiao acupoint on your right leg (3 inches above the inner ankle bone, along the posterior edge of the shinbone). Rotate clockwise 15 times and then counterclockwise 15 times. Repeat on the left leg with your right hand.
Step 4: Push and Rub the Ribs. Place both hands under your armpits and rub along the gaps between the ribs until your hands touch in front of your chest. Repeat this back-and-forth motion 30 times. [Details]
In middle age, men need to protect themselves not only from unhealthy diets but also from the four major cancers!
Some say middle age is the most glorious time of one's life, but it's also the period when health often takes a backseat without us realizing it. At this life juncture, preventing cancer becomes crucial.
Beware of Colorectal Cancer If You Have a Big Belly
Many men enjoy social gatherings at night, indulging in barbecue, beer, fatty meats, and alcoholic drinks. Long-term consumption of low-fiber, high-fat, high-protein foods, excessive intake of pickled and grilled foods, and frequent alcohol consumption can significantly increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
Dr. Zhuang Jing, Deputy Director and Chief Physician of the Department of General Surgery at Henan Cancer Hospital, recommends slowing down while eating, consciously increasing the intake of vegetables, legumes, and staple foods, reducing the consumption of red meat (such as pork, lamb, and beef), and spending at least half of the week having simple home-cooked meals. This approach is both healthy and allows you to spend quality time with your family. It's also advisable to avoid overeating, engage in regular physical activity (at least five times a week, with each session lasting 20-30 minutes), and quit smoking if you are a smoker.
Heavy Smokers Risk Lung and Heart Damage
After the age of 40, the damage caused by smoking to the lungs and heart becomes more severe. Research has found that men aged 65 and older have twice the risk of stroke due to smoking compared to those under 65.
Dr. Qin Jianjun, Deputy Director and Chief Physician of the Department of Thoracic Surgery at Henan Cancer Hospital, points out that smoking is closely related to lung cancer. Smokers with a smoking history of over 20 years, those who smoke over 20 cigarettes per day on average, people aged 40 and older with a long history of smoking, a family history of cancer, or those working in toxic and hazardous environments are all at high risk of lung cancer. These individuals should undergo annual CT scans at reputable hospitals, as this is an effective method for early detection of lung cancer. Quitting smoking as early as possible is highly recommended. You can divert your attention, reduce social gatherings, or get rid of smoking paraphernalia to quit smoking, or you can seek help from specialized smoking cessation clinics.
Excessive Stress Increases the Risk of Lymphoma
Middle-aged men are at the peak of their careers, but they also face the pressure of caring for their aging parents and educating their children. This can lead to psychological issues. Furthermore, middle-aged men are often the backbone of their organizations and frequently work overtime, leading irregular sleep patterns and increased psychological stress. These factors can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of cancer.
Dr. Li Yufu, Deputy Director and Chief Physician of the Department of Hematology at Henan Cancer Hospital, points out that people under significant psychological stress are at a much higher risk of developing colon and rectal cancer compared to those with lower stress levels. "Workaholics" are also more susceptible to lymphoma. To reduce stress, men should free themselves from utilitarianism, add more leisure to their lives, learn simplicity and humility from their children, embrace sensitivity and passion from women, and relieve stress through moderate exercise. [Details]
Men with Larger Waistlines at Greater Risk of Diabetes
According to a new study published by the British Nutrition Society, men with waistlines exceeding 40 inches (approximately 102 centimeters) and women with waistlines exceeding 34.7 inches (approximately 88 centimeters) face a five-fold and three-fold increased risk of diabetes, respectively. In other words, men with larger waistlines are more susceptible to diabetes than women.
The study found that both men and women with waistlines measuring 31.5 to 34.5 inches (approximately 80 to 88 centimeters) and men with waistlines measuring 37 to 40 inches (approximately 94 to 102 centimeters) had an increased risk of developing diabetes. Approximately 90% of type 2 diabetes patients are either overweight or obese. Men in middle age should measure their waistlines regularly by locating the midpoint between the hip bone and the ribcage. [Details]
A Must-Read for Men! The Men's Health Checklist
Nutrition Expert: Eat Foods Rich in Zinc
Research shows that 65% of people aged 30 to 45 have imbalanced nutrition. Among them, many men are unaware of their unique nutritional needs. Dr. Wang Xingguo, Director of the Department of Nutrition at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, says, "For men, zinc is one of the most special and important nutrients."
Fitness Expert: Try Some Sit-Ups
For men, losing muscle is akin to losing the foundation of life to some extent. A study found that men lose approximately one-third of their muscle mass after entering middle age. If men over 40 cannot complete 10 push-ups or squat 19 times within 30 seconds, it indicates insufficient muscle strength.
Professor Guo Bo from the Department of Health Science at Xi'an Institute of Physical Education suggests that middle-aged men should focus on exercising different muscle groups, especially the abdominal area. Among the popular home fitness exercises in the United States, sit-ups are considered one of the most important exercises for strengthening the abdominal muscles. Sit-ups stimulate blood circulation in the abdominal area, which helps protect the internal organs in the abdominal cavity.
Urology Expert: Drink More Water to Protect the Prostate
The prostate is a unique organ in men, but it can cause occasional trouble. Data indicates that about 50% of men will experience prostate problems at some point in their lives.
Dr. Guo Jun, Chief Physician in the Department of Urology at West Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, suggests that drinking water is the simplest and most important way to protect the prostate. Ensure daily water intake of 1500 to 2000 milliliters, but try to consume most of it in the morning and afternoon, and reduce nighttime water consumption to avoid frequent urination at night, which can burden the prostate.
Cardiovascular Expert: Maintain a Light Diet
Statistically, due to the protective effect of estrogen, men develop cardiovascular diseases about ten years earlier than women, with a threefold higher risk of coronary heart disease than women. Additionally, the risk of stroke is slightly higher in men than in women.
Professor Xu Chengbin from the Heart Center at Peking University People's Hospital suggests that men should make an effort to reduce their cardiovascular disease risk. Firstly, consume a light diet; excessive salt intake can elevate blood pressure. Secondly, reduce the consumption of animal fats, as saturated fatty acids in fats can increase blood lipids and lead to diabetes. Thirdly, limit the consumption of cholesterol-rich animal organs. Fourthly, abstain from alcohol, as alcohol can raise triglyceride levels in the blood. Finally, do not smoke; smokers have a significantly higher incidence of hypertension and coronary heart disease than non-smokers. [Details]
Three Vegetables Men Should Eat: Broccoli, Tomatoes, and Spinach
Many men tend to scoff at fruits and vegetables as "feminine" foods, preferring meat instead. However, a report from the UK Food Research Institute suggests that consuming a certain amount of broccoli, tomatoes, and spinach each week can help prevent prostate cancer.
Broccoli: In a study conducted on humans for the first time, researchers found that those who ate four portions of broccoli per week developed "anticancer genes" that effectively prevent prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, second only to lung cancer, with 680,000 new cases and 220,000 deaths worldwide each year. Besides broccoli, other cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower and purple cabbage also have good anticancer effects and are worth including in your diet.
Tomatoes: Tomatoes are another essential food for men, as they are not only rich in vitamin C but also contain lycopene, which promotes prostate health.
Spinach: Spinach contains magnesium, which can convert carbohydrates in muscles into usable energy and increase muscle strength in men. For men, spinach also contains folic acid and iron, which can promote the synthesis of red blood cells, increase oxygen-carrying capacity, accelerate blood circulation, and ultimately improve the quality of their sex life. Therefore, men can eat more spinach. [Details]
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