It’s not uncommon for most blokes to be relaxed about their health. But with greater rates of obesity, heart attacks, diabetes and many cancers, isn’t it time us blokes start taking better care of ourselves?
The first step is to ensure you have a healthy, well balanced diet. I’m talking plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grain cereals with moderate amounts of lean meats and dairy. With this is mind, some foods may be more beneficial for blokes.
Lycopene, an antioxidant found commonly in tomatoes and other red fruits and vegetables is linked with reduced risk of prostate cancer. Seafood is often high in zinc, important for male sexual health, and omega 3 from oily fish is great for our heart. Fibre from fruits, vegetables, wholegrain breads, rice, pasta, breakfast cereals and plenty of legumes and beans will help reduce the risk of colon cancer, the second most common cancer in men.
It’s hard to talk about men’s health without mentioning alcohol. While a lot of men enjoy a drink, its importance to drink in moderation. Excess alcohol can lead to obesity, increased blood pressure, fatty liver and cancer. The recommendations are no more than two standard drinks on a single day.
It’s time us blokes start taking better care of ourselves. Don’t be afraid to ask for help about your diet. If you require extra knowledge, support, accountability for achieving your health goals, make an appointment with one of our dietitians.
By Paul Twomey, Accredited Practising Dietitian
Recipe of the month:
Lamb and grilled vegetable salad
Ingredients:
- 2 corn cobs, cut into 3cm-thick rounds
- 1 bunch asparagus, woody ends trimmed
- 1 red capsicum, seeded and cut into thick strips
- 8-12 lamb cutlets, trimmed
- salt and cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 teaspoons wholegrain mustard
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 bunch rocket, trimmed
Method:
- Heat a stovetop grill or barbecue over medium-high heat and spray with oil spray. Cook the corn, asparagus and capsicum in batches until tender and slightly charred. Remove and set aside.
- Spray the grill with extra oil and sprinkle the lamb cutlets with salt and cracked black pepper. Cook cutlets for 3 minutes each side or to your liking.
- To serve, place the grilled corn, asparagus and capsicum on serving plates with the lamb and rocket.
