Health Risks for Men at 40!

As we age, our bodies begin to change. We notice a new freckle here and there, the hair lines recede, our waist lines expand and the reality hits-we aren't as young as we used to be!

Noted by www.aolhealth.com, men particularly as they age notice a natural increase in their cholesterol levels which increases their risk for heart disease. Another sad reality is that at age 40 the prostate gland starts a growth spurt. Because of the natural aging process, it is essential for men approaching that big 4-0 mark to make the necessary changes in their overall fitness and health approach.

It is important for men to get their cholesterol levels checked out - a simple blood test ordered by your physician can provide you with some very important information.

Cholesterol is broken down into two separate categories-your HDL and LDL levels. A combined or total blood cholesterol level should be less than 200 mg/dL. Levels that are above 240 mg/dL place you at high risk. There are 20.0 percent of Americans that fall into this category. The American Heart Association www.americanheart.org gives specific information about what cholesterol levels mean and how they attribute to heart disease.

The optimal cholesterol levels are between 100 and 129 mg/dL, while borderline high risk levels range from 130 to 159 mg/dL. High risk levels are noted between 160 mg/dL and 189 mg/dL, and very high risk levels begin at 190 mg/dL and above.

Some people naturally produce high levels of cholesterol and therefore lifestyle and dietary changes alone, may not be enough to reduce your cholesterol levels to a healthy or normal range. Medications can be prescribed to help you achieve positive results and exercise that includes cardio to increase the heart rate and increase stamina, combined with a low fat diet may also be suggested to help you reach your target!

At some point, men at the age of 40 are offered a prostate examination as part of their general health screening. If you are 50 or older, your physician will advise this examination as a routine part of your check up. The older we get, the higher our risks for certain medical issues increases. Although this examination can be considered humiliating and invasive by most men, it is essential in the early detection of abnormal swelling and can mean the difference in life or death, in the treatment of cancer. Further information can be obtained by visiting www.prostatecancerfoundation.org.

Prevention is the key to prolonging our lives. Prevention can't begin until we are proactive! Making an appointment today, can save your life!