Our Top Ten to Support Mens Health Naturally

Men’s Health! What springs to your mind?

Awkward appointments at the GP perhaps or T.V. infomercials targeting areas that may be lacking? 

While health and wellbeing aimed at women has been around for decades, it’s only in recent years that men have finally stepped into the spotlight of the health arena. 

With the fitness and wellness sector booming in all directions, particularly in the digital world,  it’s not surprising men have upped their interest in looking and feeling better than ever, looking after their mental health and increasing life expectancy.

Most of you would probably guess that men are less likely to make an appointment for anything health related. But did you know that life expectancy is on average five years younger, and that men are at a greater risk in every age group? These are the facts we are currently dealing with according to the Men’s Health Network.

Technology is leading the way on the men’s health front, think apps that track more than your running route and wearables that can tell you how at risk you are of blood pressure issues, but there are actually a few super ingredients you can throw into the mix right found in your kitchen!

June is Men’s Health Month so there’s no better time to have a look at our top ten picks (and the why!) to naturally support your health. We aren’t inventing the wheel here, but we love just how easy it is to use what nature has given us to build stamina, maintain a healthy body weight, strengthen heart health and build muscle tone. There ‘s also a couple of mood- (among other things ;)) enhancers. 

1. Maca Powder. Literally a man-superfood. Maca powder has been used for thousands of years as a Peruvian dietary staple and traditional medicines. Obvious benefits being its high-nutrient and vitamin content – iron, potassium and manganese. You’ll be pleased to note lads, it also supports healthy testosterone levels increasing energy, stamina,  vitality and helps with a low libido! If that wasn’t enough, it has a super high content of bioavailable protein meaning it’s amazing for muscle building and muscle health in general. The easiest way to use this powerhouse is to chuck into a smoothie, protein shake, juice or smoothie bowl.
2. Turmeric . And they thought turmeric was a trend! The spice is derived from the curcuma longa root, part of the ginger family. The biggest benefits come from those bright yellow/orange curcuminoids, proven to balance cholesterol levels, boost immunity, purify blood, improve lung and liver health. Turmeric  can also assist with blood supply to body parts, including the reproductive organs. It’s a super-dooper anti-inflammatory and it’s even alleged that turmeric can improve hair strand quality and reduce hair loss. Throw it into your soups, curries, stir fries and stews. It doesn’t get any easier than having a bottle of Jamu on hand for your post-workout, anti-inflammatory boost.
3. Ashwagandha. Used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine and it is well-known for its rejuvenating and adaptogenic qualities. It is effective in regulating those hormones and the immune system, relieving stress, increasing energy levels and improving concentration. Ashwagandha supplementation is also associated with an increase in muscle mass and strength – we LOVE this one. Check it out here. 
4. SLEEP!  Need we say more? Actually we had a lot more to say but decided this was a good time to take a much needed midday nap…. Zzz zzz zzz 
5. Sauerkraut. Germans will tell you sauerkraut makes the best hotdog topping – but this pickled vege is also jam packed full of nutrients like iron, manganese, VIt C and K. It’s also well known for its magical probiotic properties.  We LOVE our Kale Kraut on, well everything from salads to sandwiches and crackers. Check it out here.  
6. Dark chocolate . As well as containing antioxidants and flavanols, vitamins and nutrients, it’s also amazing for your eye health and brain function. On top of that this no-brainer addition to our top ten lowers cholesterol and blood pressure. We won’t lie, our Dark chocolate hearts are a best seller for good reason. We also heard a rumour (scientifically proven) that paired with a cheeky glass of red wine, the combination is an extremely potent aphrodisiac!
7. MCT oil . Short for medium-chain triglycerides. This super oil contains Caprylic and Capric Acid Triglycerides derived from Coconut Oil. MCT oil is one of the fastest sources of clean fuel for the body and brain, with less metabolic steps to convert into caloric energy than carbohydrates. It’s easier to digest than other oils and can help with brain function, weight loss (essential if you follow a KETO diet) and is an amazing source of energy.  We like it on salads but we know some of you are on the Butter Coffee train – and it’s perfect for that too.
8. Spirulina powder. This one walks the talk. THE ULTIMATE PROTEIN POWERHOUSE and an excellent source of vitamins A, K1, K2, B12 and iron, manganese and chromium. A rich source of health-giving phytonutrients such as carotenoids, GLA, SOD and phycocyanin. 2800% more beta-carotene than carrots.
9. Liquid Fasting. Give your digestion a rest with a 1 liquid fast. There are so many proven benefits of doing a liquid fast, improved digestion, brain function and weight loss to name a few. We’ve taken the guesswork out of it for you with our 1, 3 & 6 Day Liquids Fasts. They are all designed specifically to alkalise, regenerate and cleanse your system with fresh organic vegetable & fruit juices, organic chicken or vegetable broths, water kefir (probiotic), herbal teas & high quality water. Click here for more info.

1. Avocados . We saved this one for last but it has to be our favourite of the bunch. Men, did you know the avocado was actually named after your, ahem, certain pair of body parts. The word avocado is derived from the Aztec word for testicle, “ahuakatl.” It apparently has aphrodisiac properties (not scientifically proven) as well as being another powerhouse full of vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, and potassium. PLUS They also provide lutein, beta-carotene, and omega-3 fatty acids. We know it’s always disappointing when you crack open your avo and it’s past it’s time – let us know we will always swap it over for you! 

We have to add here that everybody is different, so if you have medical concerns please check with your healthcare professional before starting any supplements.