Reading the new blood pressure guidelines

New guidelines now define high blood pressure for all adults as 130/80 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or higher. Lowering the threshold for treatment was found to give greater protection against heart attacks and strokes. This means 70% to 79% of men ages 55 and older are now classified as having high blood pressure. The recommendations can help men be more mindful about their blood pressure and more active about keeping it low. More »

How does my health compare with President Trump’s?

Men the same age as President Trump should not use the results of his recent physical as a guideline for their health, since his 10-year risk of a heart attack, stroke, or cardiac death was 16%, which is much higher than the standard 7.5% to 10% for the average, healthy 70-year-old man. (Locked) More »

Can the flu increase my heart attack risk?

A new study found that a person’s risk of heart attack is six times more likely to occur within the week following an influenza diagnosis. However, getting a flu vaccination can reduce the risk of illness and death from heart disease. (Locked) More »

Keeping kidney stones at bay

Kidney stones are more common in men than women, and half of people who’ve had them will have a repeat episode within 10 to 15 years. Men can reduce their risk of new and recurring kidney stones by drinking sufficient water, increasing calcium, reducing sodium intake, and avoiding or cutting back on high-oxalate foods and animal protein. (Locked) More »

Breathing life into your lungs

By age 65, the average man has typically lost up to a liter of lung capacity compared with when he was younger. However, it is possible for a person to preserve lung function and maybe even slow its natural decline by consuming more antioxidant-rich fruits; adopting weight training to improve the core, back, and posture; and getting proper vaccinations to protect against respiratory infections. (Locked) More »

The truth about metabolism

Metabolism speed is often used to explain whether people have an easy or difficult time losing and maintaining weight. While metabolism plays a small role in weight management, people can increase their metabolism speed to a degree by following a proper diet and exercise. (Locked) More »

How to overcome grief’s health-damaging effects

Grieving over the death of a spouse, friend, or family member exposes people to many months of constant stress that can lead to anxiety, depression, trouble sleeping, and general aches and pains. This can place people at a greater risk for a heart attack, stroke, or even death, especially in the first few months of losing someone. Adopting several mind-body strategies designed to help lower and manage stress can help people get through the grieving process. (Locked) More »