Taking the natural health approach to men’s wellbeing
A large number of Australian men have high blood pressure and/or high cholesterol, smoke and/or drink too much, are overweight and don’t exercise regularly, increasing their risk of developing heart disease and diabetes. Although 57 percent of people now use some form of alternative medicine, findings have been similar to that for allopathic medicine with natural health practitioners observing that, for the most part, it’s women who seem more proactive about their health. But, gradually more men are realising the need to take care of their bodies and minds. Taking a natural health perspective when it comes to men’s health is a beneficial choice.
Here are eight natural health options you can consider when it comes to men’s health.
Natural health option 1 – herbal medicine
Herbal medicine is a popular natural health solution. This can be a beneficial choice in treating prostate problems. For instance, in Germany a standardised liposterolic extract of saw palmetto has been commonly used in treating cases of enlarged prostate. Herbal medicine has also been a useful natural health option for impotence and heart disease.
Natural health option 2 – nutrition
As part of the natural health approach, it’s vital to recognise the lifestyle factors that can affect men’s health and the need to provide their bodies with good quality nutrition. Zinc, for instance is essential for the production of healthy sperm as well as for the immune system. Nutrients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E are also known to improve male fertility. It’s important men receive an intake of these nutrients in the food consumed.
Natural health option 3 – acupuncture
Acupuncture is a beneficial natural health option as it seeks out the underlying causes of imbalance and patterns of disharmony. It is also very effective for physical problems such as back pain.
Natural health option 4 – homoeopathy
Homoeopathic treatment can be used either directly or as a complement to traditional medicine. Some of the areas where it can be of help for men in particular include post-operative support, chronic pain, prostate disorders, penile dysfunction, bladder issues, irritable bowel syndrome, heartburn, sexual dysfunction, sleep disorders and more.
Natural health option 5 – Ayurveda
Ayurvedic medicine places equal emphasis on body, mind and spirit, using an individualised approach to return an individual to a state where they are once more in harmony with their environment. This natural health modality is effective for men’s maladies including prostate problems, sexual dysfunction, baldness, obesity, depression, arthritis, cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.
Natural health option 6 – Counselling
Counselling and psychology can provide a forum for men to share their story, relieve stress and introduce some new strategies that are more supportive of their relationships and physical wellbeing.
Natural health option 7 – Flower essences
Flower essences work on emotional problems. However, because of the close connection between the emotions and the physical state of the body, the essences have proved useful in relieving physical problems.
Natural health option 8 – Yoga for men
Yoga is said to help combat age-related diseases such as impotence, prostate conditions, osteoporosis and heart problems. It can help men become more flexible and relax the muscles. Through yoga, particularly meditation, men are able to look deeper into themselves, listen to their inner voice and develop a more positive view of life, which can help enhance their relationships with other people.
These are not the only natural health modalities available that offer beneficial results for men. There are a wide range of choose from. Visit the WellBeing directory to find a natural Health practitioner near you.
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