Thursday, January 14, 2010

Men's Health Quiz

In addition to a well-rounded diet, a healthy lifestyle, and plenty of exercise, what else can men do to be as healthy as possible? Here's a little quiz: There are 7 supplements men can take to improve their overall health. See if you can name any of them.

Gingko Biloba
This supplement, a popular treatment for erectile dysfunction, has shown promise in increasing the flow of blood to the penis.

Vitamin E
The antioxidant properties of this essential vitamin help the body fend off the ravages of free-radicals, the energy by-products that harm cells and contribute to the development of disease, including heart disease and various forms of cancer. It also plays an essential part in repairing the structure of DNA, maintaining the functions of the immune system, and regulating metabolism. The taking of vitamin E supplements has been linked to a lower incidence of cataract development and a decreased risk of heart attacks and heart attack-related deaths. In a study out of Cambridge University, Vitamin E reduced the risk of both fatal and non-fatal heart attacks by 47 percent and non-fatal heart attacks by 77 percent. New research is also showing that Vitamin E may play a role in reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Lycopene
An antioxidant found in tomatoes, carrots, and other colorful vegetables, lycopene is believed to keep cancerous tumors from forming in the prostate and shrink existing tumors.

Zinc
Because the prostate uses so much of zinc, supplementation with the mineral in capsule form may make up for any dietary deficiencies.

Saw Palmetto
Extracted from the berries of the saw palmetto plant, this herb lowers estrogen levels and decreases the size of an enlarged prostate.

Vitamin C
Also known as ascorbic acid, this vitamin is an essential part of collagen, a protein needed for optimal cell and tissue growth, healing from skin wounds and bone repair, and the formation of blood vessels. It also keeps your immune system healthy and helps you absorb iron.

Calcium
Men may not get osteoporosis at the same rate as women, but strong bones are still an essential part of healthy aging. Calcium is a mineral that is vital to the development and structure of your bones and teeth, and the normal functioning of your blood cells and vascular systems.

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