Menu

Tag: men

Heart Attack Facts – Are You At Risk?

The very mention of ‘heart attack’ (myocardial infarction or MI), gets the chest thumping, causes a sweat and brings on nausea, but what are the facts when it comes to the dreaded words, and why is it so important to prevent one from happening?  Heart disease is the number one killer in the USA for both men and women, with the disease claiming 1 million lives annually.  Wake up and realize that being added to this statistic is a probability if we do not change certain habits and daily routines.  Claiming more lives than all forms of cancers combined, the heart is something to protect and not in the romantic way.  The Heart Foundation states that every 34 seconds someone has a heart attack and every 60 seconds, someone in the U.S. dies from a heart disease related event.

 

WHAT IS HEART DISEASE?

Heart disease has many factors, there is not a one-line answer, but many factors and contributors need to be diagnosed.  Heart disease is a broad term and covers many different areas,for example:

  • Coronary artery disease, plaque/atherosclerosis, is mainly a build up of fat, cholesterol and calcium in the coronary arteries, blocking oxygen rich blood to the main heart muscle. The build up can be so severe it may lead to sudden cardiac death.
  • Peripheral Arterial Disease occurs when major arteries that supply blood to the legs, arms and pelvis become obstructed. This can cause, numbness, pain and major infections.
  • Carotid Artery Disease is when plaque buildup or a clot forms in the main carotid arteries around the neck, which could result in a stroke.
  • Heart rhythm disorders
  • Congenital heart defects (heart defects from birth)

 

HEART ATTACK WARNING SIGNS IN MEN

The following is a guideline for common signs of a heart attack in men.  Be aware that each individual may suffer from a varied form of the below.  If in doubt, then act and call 911.

  • Chest pain, which may spread to the back, neck, jaw and arms
  • Shortness of breath
  • Unusual tiredness a few days before an attack
  • Feeling of gas or indigestion
  • Feeling dizzy
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Sweaty
  • Pounding of heart
  • Loss of consciousness

 

HEART ATTACK WARNING SIGN IN WOMEN

Although women and men share many of the same symptoms, they differ when it comes to signs of a heart attack.  Women are less likely to spot the early signs of an attack and will often try to ignore the fact they need urgent help.

  • Pain or a feeling of discomfort in both arms, back, jaw or stomach
  • Chest pain or tightness in chest (most common symptom in both sexes)
  • Shortness of breath
  • Tight pressure in chest that lasts longer than a few minutes
  • Cold sweats, nausea or lightheadedness

 

WHAT TO DO IF SOMEONE IS HAVING A HEART ATTACK?

If suspecting someone is having a heart attack call 911 immediately, time is crucial and acting fast can triple the chances of survival.   Whist waiting for the ambulance, there are a number of possible measure to try and save a life.

  • If possible, get the victim to chew and swallow an aspirin (ideally 300mg), ensuring there isn’t an allergy before administering. The aspirin will thin the blood and reduce the risk of having a major heart attack.
  • If the person is unconscious, open the airway , check for breathing and begin CPR.
  • If the patient is conscious, have them sit up to put less stress on the heart

 

RECOVERING AFTER A HEART ATTACK

If fortunate to recover from a heart attack, depending on how serious the attack and how healthy the person, determines the amount of time recovery takes.  It may take a number of months to feel better, so the key is not to rush the process.  There are a number of professionals who will be there to support the healing process including:

  • Dietitians
  • Physiotherapists
  • Nurses
  • Exercise specialists
  • Pharmacists

Physical and mental strength will be worked on while in hospital, and this care will be closely monitored once returning to the home environment.  Analyzing habits and lifestyle along with required lifestyle changes are crucial to aid recovery and stop future heart attacks.  The patient’s situation will affect the specific program assigned.  Exercise will be gentle at first and steadily increase the stronger the person becomes.  It is essential to follow the guidelines given by the professionals.

Having a heart attack is not only a terrifying health wake up call, it may lead to mental issues.  It is a life-changing occurrence and patients may suffer from anxiety or even depression after the event.  Making sure that mental health is in check is just as crucial, so any feelings of anxiety or depression must be disclosed to a professional.  Mental health may also be linked to the physical recovery and overall well being.

 

CHANGING DIET

The patients diet will be analyzed and the following suggestions may be advised:

  • Mediterranean-Style diet (Lyon Diet Heart Study, which found that a Mediterranean-style diet cut heart attacks and deaths by 70% compared with a traditional American Heart Association diet, says Dr. Willett).
  • Oily Fish, including salmon, trout, tuna, mackerel, sardines and herring.
  • Poultry (without skin)
  • Vegetables
  • Beans
  • Olive oil
  • Nuts
  • Drastically reduce meat butter, cream and sugars

To read more about heart disease please visit: GetThrive.com

 

Swiss Safe 2-in-1 First Aid Kit
Swiss Safe 2-in-1 First Aid Kit

8 Weight Loss & Belly Fat Resources

HOW TO GET RID OF BELLY FAT

Belly fat is an uninvited guest that can lead to some pretty horrid health problems.  Banish the muffin top and start to feel fit and fantastic with these simple steps.

https://getthrive.com/how-to-get-rid-of-belly-fat/

 

EXERCISES TO LOSE BELLY FAT

Belly be gone, with simple exercises that will help rid the bulge and gain the muscle.

https://getthrive.com/exercises-to-lose-belly-fat/

 

HOW TO LOSE WEIGHT QUICKLY

Get a grip and regain control of the belly fat.  How does mind and body have a connection to the jiggle around the middle!

https://getthrive.com/how-to-lose-weight-quickly-reduce-anxiety-shed-pounds/

 

EXCERCISES TO LOSE BELLY FAT FOR MEN

Is jelly belly still sagging around after all the exercise?  It may be because it’s the wrong kind of work out!

https://getthrive.com/exercises-lose-belly-fat-men-wrong-type-workout/

 

WEIGHT LOSS USING RESISTANCE TRAINING

Gain strength and shed that weight.  The advantages of resistance training are impressive, not only for shape and definition, but health too.

https://getthrive.com/weight-loss-using-resistance-training/

 

5 SUPER EASY WAYS TO LOSE WEIGHT

Stop with the fads and stick to the basics.  How adding a number of easy additions to a daily routine may help with losing weight.

https://getthrive.com/5-super-easy-ways-to-weight-loss/

 

TROUBLE LOSING FAT

Protein is a friend of the body and an enemy of fat.  Increase the correct protein, resulting in a leaner body.

https://getthrive.com/trouble-losing-fat-then-youre-probably-not-eating-enough-protein/?platform=hootsuite

 

 

 

 

Exercises to Lose Belly Fat for Men: Is There a Wrong Type of Workout?

[et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” _builder_version=”3.2.1″]

So, Mr. Man-on-a Mission, you’re specifically looking for exercises to lose belly fat for men? Congratulations on your intent to get healthy and look more desirable! We all know exercise is great. But, beware because there is definitely a wrong type of workout when you’re trying to get rid of that spare tire.

I Thought All Workouts Were Good!

When it comes to exercise, any movement is better than no movement—to an extent. Studies show that walking 30 minutes a day can improve your mood. Also, exercise delivers nutrients and oxygen to your muscles and cells. This helps increase your energy level.

But, when it comes to exercises to lose belly fat for men, there are precautions you have to take. Knowing what to avoid in a workout can make all the difference.

Where Did I Go Wrong?

First of all, if you are eating nutritiously and in good portions, that’s a fantastic first step. That means you are eating breakfast, correct? You should be having fresh fruit with whole grains, oatmeal, eggs, avocado, and other good fats.

For snacks and meals you are enjoying fresh produce, including greens and other veggies, lean meats, fish, nuts, beans, brown rice, quinoa, etc., yes? Terrific!

Now, let’s review your workouts. Not all exercises lead to weight loss. Here is where you may be going wrong…

  • Swimming
  • Yoga
  • Golf
  • Aerobics

How Could Something So Right Be So Wrong?

It’s time to clarify. Exercises such as: swimming, yoga, golf, and aerobics are all good for your body. On the other hand, they are not necessarily the best workouts if you want to lose belly fat. For another alternative, check this out.

Staying Afloat

Swimming is an awesome exercise for your joints, muscles, and endurance. Although, when you’re starting, you can’t really swim far or long enough to get its maximum benefits. Wearing a heart monitor might be a good idea so you can check your level of intensity.

You want to get into the aerobic zone if you plan to lose weight. Many swimmers get anaerobic, which won’t help your waistline very much. Additionally, it’s been pointed out that swimmers tend to eat more after a workout than those exercising in other sports.

Yo, Yo, Yoga and Go, Go, Golf

For men, yoga is especially helpful to aid with flexibility. It’s also a great way to learn how to reduce stress. Practicing yoga can help tone and sculpt muscle, and build balance and strength. Most notably, however, yoga will not get rid of belly fat the way you desire.

Golf is a wonderful sport for spending time outdoors. It’s terrific for walking, moving muscles, and helping with motor skills and balance. But, is it an effective workout to shed the spare tire? Not really.

Are Aerobics Right or Wrong?

Many people see great results from indulging in aerobic activity 3-5 times a week. Although, the key here is the amount of time spent. Too much aerobics and you will lose fat, but also muscle.

Ideally, exercises to lose belly fat for men is a combination of aerobic activity with weight training. It’s very important to preserve muscle mass. You will also increase your metabolism, which, in turn, will keep you burning calories even after you’re done working out.

Things to Keep in Mind During Your Workouts

  • Focus on technique. Be mindful of your movement so you don’t get injured. Remember, if you get injured, it will knock you out of the workout game for a while. You want to make progress, not fall behind.
  • Don’t overdo it. You want to challenge yourself, but you don’t want to overtax your immune system. Too much working out can actually cause stress. Also, make sure you are getting rest at night.
  • Do a combination of high intensity with weight training. You will get more bang for your buck. Losing belly fat will keep you healthier longer. Shedding pounds can also make you more confident and content.

Stay committed and keep your goals in mind. Losing belly fat is within your power. You can do it! Just do it the right way and you can’t go wrong.

For more helpful tips on weight loss, exercise, diet, and overall health, check out other articles on GetThrive!

 

Sources:

5 Reasons Golfers Don’t Lose Weight

http://www.enjoy-swimming.com/swimming-to-lose-weight.html

https://www.rodalewellness.com/fitness/worst-exercises-fat-loss/slide/1

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048389

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

When Do Men Find You Most Attractive?

Most women would agree that they put in a great deal of effort to look attractive for men. But even after buying that new dress, and getting your hair, nails, and makeup done, this isn’t what really does it for men. In fact, most women would be surprised to find out when men find them most attractive.

More Than Meets the Eye

A new study photographed 22 women’s faces, A new study photographed 22 women’s faces, and the results showed that their facial coloring had a more reddish-tinge when they began their ovulation. This was only recognizable in “zoomed” photographs; the naked eye wouldn’t necessarily notice.

The Animal Kingdom

Interestingly enough, studies of chimpanzees showed that females’ bottoms became redder when they were ovulating. This drew male primates to those females, and they ignored the other chimp women.

Flirty and Fertile

For humans, the signs of fertility may be less noticeable because of our evolved need for commitment. No “wham bam, thank you ma’am” for the modern gal. And although this adage may be true, other studies still show that ovulating women unconsciously dress more enticingly and flirt more aggressively. You go, tigress!

More Danger Linked to Eating Red Meat

Although there have already been plenty of reports encouraging the avoidance or decrease of red meat consumption, there’s one more to add to the list.  Men, in particular, who eat a considerable amount of red meat are at higher risk of developing a painful, chronic colon condition.

What We Already Know

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend a variety of foods, mostly plant-based. Ideally, one’s plate would be half vegetables and fruits, a quarter whole grains and legumes, and a quarter protein. Unfortunately, many Americans are still plating up unprocessed red meats (burgers and steaks) as their protein of choice.

Choosing lean meats (poultry), fish, and beans as a protein is better overall for heart and colon health. One theory for the disturbance that red meat causes in the body is that it interferes with the gut microbiome. This negatively affects proper digestion. Other evidence points to consumption of red meat fueling low-level inflammation. Chronic inflammation, at any level, is dangerous and has been known to increase risk of cancer.

So, Now What Are They Saying?

A new study out of Boston found that men who ate over 10 servings of red meat per week were over 50% more likely to develop diverticulitis. Diverticulitis is a pouch in the lining of the colon that becomes inflamed of infected. Food and bacteria get trapped in the pocket(s), which creates the perilous condition.

This inflammatory disease of the colon causes extreme pain, constipation, and nausea. Diverticulitis can result in dangerous complications such as blockages and/or tears in the colon wall. If the increase of heart disease or cancer didn’t scare you, perhaps the results of this study may.

Senior researcher Dr. Andrew Chan noted that in this study, there was no link between poultry or fish and the risk of diverticulitis. What this means is that trading out a piece of grilled chicken for a hamburger can greatly decrease a man’s risk of developing diverticulitis. The study was conducted over a 26-year period and included over 46,000 male participants.

How to Proceed

If you love a good steak or burger, you don’t need to remove it completely from your diet (unless your health practitioner has made that recommendation.) Aim to keep your servings to three or less per week. There are many delicious and nutrient-rich replacements for high protein dishes besides red meat.

A plant-based diet will keep you heart-healthiest, but chicken, turkey, and fish are completely acceptable sources of main protein on your breakfast, lunch, or dinner plate. Whichever you choose, remember to combine double its portion with vegetables and fruit. For more articles on healthy eating, check out www.GetThrive.com

Sources:

http://www.upi.com/Health_News/2017/01/10/Red-meat-consumption-may-be-linked-to-gut-disorder-in-men/1341484071725/

Are Flu Symptoms Worse for Men or Women?

When anyone catches the flu, man or woman, the first couple of days are plain awful. A new study, however, points out that cold and flu symptoms may actually be harsher (and last longer) for the females.

It’s the Most Germ-Filled Time of the Year…

The cold and flu season has begun, and contagious germs are making their rounds. Generally, when someone in the office gets sick, look out, it’s coming your way. If someone at home comes down with a cold or virus, you might as well stock up on the tissues and chicken soup now.

But according to recent research, it’s the women in the house who suffer the most and the longest.

Research Coughed This Up

Between 2009 and 2015, a study was conducted with over 700 participants at five specific military treatment centers. At the facilities, those serving in the military, along with their family members, were tested when they presented signs of a cold or flu.

The participants were swabbed so their illness could be identified. They each kept journals, rating the severity of the symptoms daily. After analyzing the results of all the journals, the researchers discovered that women suffered more.

Both men and women became infected at the same rate, but women’s symptoms lingered. For day one and two of the illness, both male and females reported similar aches, pains, fever, or discomfort. But by day three and beyond, the women’s symptoms tended to continue.

Slippery Slope and a Runny Nose

Because so much of the research was based on self-reporting, the results could be a tad incongruous. Were women more apt to be honest about their condition, while men “braved it out” and underreported symptoms? Were women simply more keen and in-tune to their symptoms? Some medical experts suspect that hormonal differences can play a part in how the body fights infections.

Avoid Being Part of the Research

Sometimes the seasonal bug is going to catch us regardless of how well we take care of our health. Thrive posted suggestions a couple of months back to help you avoid falling ill from the latest cold or flu. The key is to boost your immune system. Here are some ways of doing so:

1) Sleep. When you get tired, take a nap, or just tuck yourself in for the night. If you absolutely cannot, muddle through, get done what you must, try to get to bed as soon as possible. Do not pump up on coffee or other caffeine. That will falsely revive you and weaken your immune system.

2) Stay calm. It’s the time of year when stress builds; it could be the foreboding holiday worries, finances, kids and school, etc. When you feel yourself stressing out, remind yourself to shake it off. Do you want to get sick? No? Good. Then breathe, smile, take a bath, hug someone you love—and rest your weary self.

3) Drink lots of water and other non-sugary beverages. Keep flushing out. Stay hydrated.

4) Wash your hands with soap and water several times a day. Germs are everywhere. You can seriously avoid getting infected if you wash them away before they get you.

5) Eat fresh foods high in vitamins A, B, and C and zinc. Take supplements if you’re feeling especially vulnerable.

Best of health to you and your family this season!

Men, Women, Menopause, and Memory

As we age, both men and women remark and woe about memory loss. Menopause has long been known as one culprit towards the demise of women’s memories. New research, however, notes that middle-age women still remember more than their male peers.

Menopause Memory Research

Up to 75 percent of people (men and women) over the age of 50 complain of memory loss. Women, especially when going through menopause, experience brain fog, fading memory, and difficulty with recall. A new study out of Harvard Medical School reports that as estrogen levels drop, the ability to recollect also fades.

The research, led by Professor Jill Goldstein, included over 200 men and women. Their age range was between 45 and 55. Everyone in the study participated in memory and thinking tests, which observed word processing, verbal intelligence, and executive function.

The results showed that women who had not gone through menopause had better memory. The women who had lower estrogen levels (due to menopause) had lower learning rates for new information and memory recall.

Even with that somewhat depressing news for menopausal women, it turned out worse for men. Women in the study may have reported being more forgetful, but as far as the results of memory tests—women outperformed the men!

Uplifting Info

In regards to this particular study, the researchers claim that women’s memory storage and consolidation weren’t affected by menopause. That’s a mind-full of good news.

Another study that was conducted in 2009 out of the University of California, Los Angeles showed promising menopause/memory results, too. That research was based on studying over 2,000 women over a four-year period. The researchers found that learning ability and memory largely returned after menopause was complete.

However, in 2009, researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, found that in the more than 2,000 women studied over four years, memory and learning ability tended to return after menopause was complete.

Growing New Brain Cells

Believe it or not, we can affect the health of our brain cells. New ones are constantly being produced, and by making certain life choices, you can boost your memory and create healthier cells.

1) Get a good night’s sleep—consistently. Aim for between seven and nine hours per night.

2) Get exercise. Anything that works up a sweat will do the trick. Studies show that cognitive function increases in those who stick to an exercise regimen.

3) Give up smoking.

4) Drink more water. Dehydration is a culprit known to cause brain-cell deterioration. Carry around a non-toxic decanter and refill throughout the day with fresh water.

5) Cut calories. Overeating lends to brain fog. Restricting calories by approximately 20 percent stimulates the growth of new brain cells.

6) Practice coping skills. Keep stress levels low whenever possible. Anxiety and panic raise cortisol levels, which in turn, can damage brain cells. A calm body breeds healthier cells all over.

7) Drink green tea. A substance in green tea generates new cells. The inclusion of green tea into our diet can improve memory and cognition.

Eating fresh, whole foods will help to keep you properly nourished. And as always, daily exercise, even if it’s a nice, brisk walk. It will do wonders for your body AND mind. For other tips on how to boost memory check this out!

 

 

 

 

Why Do Women Experience Anxiety More than Men?

If you think women experience anxiety more than men, you would be correct. The question is “Why”?

Women Rule

If you look at research findings on the National Institutes of Health (NIH) website, there’s a hefty section on anxiety disorders. They list the most common risk factors, both genetic and environmental. Some factors are: being widowed or divorced, financially poor, or extremely shy. However, the most glaring risk factor contributing to anxiety is—“being female.”

Is Anyone Paying Attention?

A Ph.D candidate at the University of Cambridge, Olivia Remes, decided to further explore the link between women and anxiety disorders. According to the NIH, four out of every 100 people around the world have an anxiety disorder. This makes it one of the most common mental health conditions. We’re not talking about every once and a while getting worried about something important. That’s “typical.” What’s atypical is having excessive fear, anxiety, muscle tension, difficulty focusing, and being irritable—for consecutive months.

Remes and her team reviewed studies that had been conducted around the globe. Her findings were that women are almost twice as likely to suffer from anxiety than men. She also noted that in North America and Europe there are far more cases than in other parts of the world. Remes believes anxiety disorders require more attention, and added, “There has been a lot of focus on depression, which is an important mental health issue, but anxiety is equally important. It is debilitating. It can lead to suicide and is associated with high costs to society.”

Theories

Everyone experiences situations in life that are stressful. Men tend cope by focusing on the problem and solving it. Women, on the other hand, give deep thought to the situation, but also focus on the feelings of distress. It’s a coping strategy, but one that can exacerbate anxiety.

Hormone fluctuation is another factor why women may experience more anxiety. A woman’s hormones and brain chemistry alter across the entire span of her life. When pregnant, there is a surge in estrogen and progesterone. This occurrence can increase the risk for obsessive compulsive disorder and anxiety.

Physical and mental abuse, especially early in life, can contribute to anxiety disorders. And because females tend to suffer more abuse than males, the potential for developing anxiety increases among females.

Help is Available

There are many types of treatments available. Once the symptoms are recognized, seeking help sooner than later is beneficial. Your medical doctor may prescribe medication temporarily. A good therapist can assist with cognitive behavior treatment. Meditation, yoga, and all forms of exercise help too. Just know you are not alone, and you can/will feel better.