Andropause Symptoms: Life Style Tips, Diet Recommendations and Herbs to Treat Andropause

Andropause, similar to menopause in females, is a condition which is characterized by reduced production of testosterone which is the primary male hormone. The word “Andropause” is currently not included in the World Health Organizations, ICD-10 and not recognized as a condition. Estimates however suggest that approximately 30% of males above the age of 50 years experience symptoms identified as a part of low testosterone levels. 5 million people in the United States and approximately one in every 10 individuals above the age of 60 years suffer from low levels of testosterone. The concept though not widely accepted in the United States is relatively more appreciated in Australia and parts of Eastern Europe. Though hormone replacement therapy is considered to be the prime solution to the problem, simple dietary tips, herbal remedies and life style modifications can help in effective management of the condition

Age Gracefully: Manage

Andropause Naturally

Understanding Andropause: Andropause Symptoms associated with drop in Testosterone

Andropause is a condition which is characterized by reduction in the production of testosterone. Unlike menopause which is associated with complete cessation of the reproductive life of the female, Andropause doesn’t result in complete cessation of reproductive ability but is associated with bouts of impotence and lower fertility levels. Fall in the levels of testosterone are associated with the following symptoms,  

• Fatigue and a sense of loss of wellbeing is the most commonly observed symptom
• Reduced potency and libido are observed in individuals with lower testosterone levels
• Depression, anger and irritability
• Hot flashes with sleep disturbances are common
• Joint pains with stiffness in the hands and feet
• Premature aging involving changes in the texture and quality of skin and hair

 Andropause Treatment: Life Style Tips and Diet Recommendations

Certain life style modifications and a correct and balance diet can not only help in dealing with some of the symptoms of Andropause, but can also regularize the hormonal system and aid in increasing testosterone levels.  

• Regular Exercise plays a crucial role in effective management of Andropause. Exercising for twenty minutes each day helps in management of the condition. Exercising increases the production of hormones in the body and also helps in regulating metabolism. Simple Yoga exercises can be very beneficial and they help you maintain a healthy and supple body.
• Diet plays a crucial role in regulating the production of various hormones including testosterone. Increase the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables. Reduce the intake of processed and refined foods. Refined foods interfere with normal metabolism and also hamper the production of hormones. Increase intake of prunes, almonds, walnuts, flax seeds etc. as they are loaded with Omega 3 fatty acids. Lean beef, chicken and eggs also play a crucial role in supplying essential proteins to the body.
• Adequate amount of sleep is crucial for management of this condition. Reduce the consumption of stimulants like alcohol, coffee and nicotine. These foods cause wakefulness and interfere with the normal hormonal cycle of the body



Ginseng is beneficial
in enhancing Libido

• Low fat milk and dairy products along with green leafy vegetables are good sources of calcium and magnesium, which are essential to prevent aging and osteoporosis.

 Herbs to treat Andropause: Home Remedies for regulating Hormone Balance 

• St John’s Wort is an essential herb which is found to be effective in the management of depression associated with Andropause
• Saffron are considered beneficial in mood regulation and management of depression
• Ginseng and Ginko biloba stimulate sex drive and also enhance libido
• Turmeric and Raw Honey is considered to be beneficial in management of joint stiffness. Turmeric is better than conventional NSAIDS and analgesics for management of pain while honey is a great source of energy.
• Ginger is considered beneficial in the management of joint pains and aches. Ginger tea or freshly crushed ginger can be used with great effectiveness. 

Treating Hyperthyroidism Naturally: Hyperthyroidism Diet and Foods

Clinically referred to as thyrotoxicosis, the prevalence of hyperthyroidism ranges between 0.2 percent in males and about 2 percent in females. Further community based studies have pointed out that prevalence of hyperthyroidism in elderly patients can be as high as 15 percent. Understanding the manifestation of hyperthyroidism is crucial to understand the severity of the disorder. Fortunately dietary regulations can help in efficient management of the condition.

Grave's Disease is responsible
for Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism: Etiology and Manifestations

Hyperthyroidism is a condition characterized by excessive production of the thyroid hormone, which in turn is associated with alteration of metabolic and physiological process of cells in the body. The causes of hyperthyroidism include,

• Autoimmune disorder, often referred to as the Graves Disease, where the body’s immune system releases anti-bodies against the thyroid gland resulting in increased production of the thyroid hormone
• Benign tumors of the thyroid glands can result in solitary nodules which are associated with hyperthyroidism
• Inflammation of the thyroid gland or thyroiditis is another condition which is associated with increased production of the thyroid gland

Hyperthyroidism is associated with a wide range of symptoms which include,  

• Sudden and rapid loss of weight
• Palpitations, increased heart rate and breathlessness
• Fatigue, exhaustion and tremors
• Intolerance to heat
• Irritability with disturbed sleep or insomnia
• Altered bowel movement
• Amenorrhea or irregular menstrual cycles
• Muscular weakness
• Hair loss

Natural Treatment for Hyperthyroidism: Foods for Hyperthyroidism

  

Cabbage is a goitrogenic
food and helps in treatment
of Hyperthyroidism

Here are some dietary tips that can help in efficient management of hyperthyroidism,

• Increase the intake of cruciferous vegetables. Foods like cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnip and broccoli are also termed as goitrogenic foods since they interfere with the body’s ability to utilize iodine effectively. These foods would reduce the utilization of iodine and thereby aid in reducing the excessive production of thyroid hormone, responsible for hyperthyroidism
• Millet, Sorghum, Soy and Cassava also act as goitrogens and block the availability of iodine
• Zinc supplementation is crucial especially in individuals suffering from hyperthyroidism. Overactive thyroid gland tends to deplete the zinc content in the body. Include foods like garlic, almonds. Peanuts, walnuts and pumpkin seeds in your diet. These foods are loaded with zinc
• Calcium supplementation is also important among individuals with hyperthyroidism. Increase the intake of prunes, dates, figs, turnips, sesame seeds which are good sources of calcium. Avoid diary food products
• Vitamin E and Vitamin C are powerful antioxidants that can help fight oxidative stress and help in effective management of hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism and Diet: Foods to Avoid

Certain foods tend to aggravate the problem of hyperthyroidism and should be avoided in the daily diet menu,

•  Avoid canned and processed foods. These foods are loaded with chemicals, coloring agents and preservatives and tend to interfere with the normal production of hormones in the body
• Avoid refined foods like refined flour, white sugar, trans fats and pasta
• Avoid foods that are high in iodine content namely seafood and certain medication. Limit the intake of iodized salt, instead try using sea salt or non fortified salt
• Avoid tea, aerated beverages, alcohol and coffee. These foods interfere with the absorption of vital nutrients and further complicate the problem.