Category: News

The Ultimate Guide to Ashwagandha: A Natural Boost for Men’s Health

Could ashwagandha, an ancient medicinal root, be the game-changer you’re looking for? Rooted in Ayurvedic traditions, this plant has gained global popularity for its potential to reduce stress, enhance muscle growth, and boost testosterone.

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), often called Indian ginseng or winter cherry, is a small evergreen shrub native to India, North Africa, and parts of the Middle East. While modern society has only recently embraced this plant, it has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 6,000 years. Ashwagandha is classified as an “adaptogen,” meaning it helps the body manage stress, promoting balance and wellness.

Renowned for its resilience, ashwagandha thrives in dry, nutrient-poor soils, reflecting its ability to support the body through tough conditions—both physically and mentally. The name “ashwagandha” comes from Sanskrit, meaning “smell of the horse,” hinting at the strength and vitality it imparts.

Ashwagandha Benefits for Men

  1. Reduces Anxiety and Stress
    In today’s fast-paced world, ashwagandha’s stress-relieving properties are particularly valuable. Studies have shown that it can help reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone responsible for feelings of anxiety. Research published in Phytotherapy Research demonstrated a marked decrease in anxiety and stress symptoms among participants taking ashwagandha supplements.
  2. Supports Muscle Growth and Physical Performance
    Ashwagandha has gained attention for its potential to enhance physical performance. In a study of 57 men, those who took the supplement saw significant increases in muscle mass and strength, as well as reduced body fat. Whether you’re recovering from illness or simply looking to boost your gym results, ashwagandha could help accelerate muscle recovery and improve endurance.
  3. Boosts Cognitive Function
    Traditionally used in Ayurveda to improve memory, ashwagandha may support brain health by protecting nerve cells from oxidative damage. In several studies, it has been shown to enhance memory, attention, and reaction time. For men looking to sharpen mental performance, this herb offers promising benefits.
  4. Enhances Testosterone and Sperm Quality
    One of the most notable benefits of ashwagandha for men is its impact on testosterone levels. Several studies have linked ashwagandha to increased testosterone production and improved sperm quality. In one study of infertile men, daily supplementation led to a significant rise in sperm count, motility, and overall reproductive health.
  5. Boosts Immunity and Reduces Inflammation
    Ashwagandha is rich in antioxidants that protect cells from damage. It has been shown to increase the activity of immune cells and reduce inflammation, making it an excellent option for those looking to support their immune system naturally.

Side Effects and Considerations

While ashwagandha is generally considered safe, large doses can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or vomiting. Some users have also reported drowsiness and vivid dreams. It’s best to start with a lower dose and gradually increase as needed. Always consult your healthcare provider, especially if you’re taking medications for thyroid, blood pressure, or blood sugar.

How to Take Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is available in several forms, including powders, capsules, and extracts. Traditionally, it’s taken with honey or milk. Most supplements range from 450 mg to 2 g per dose. To maximize its benefits, it’s advised to take the herb consistently over several months.

Ashwagandha and Erectile Dysfunction

While ashwagandha has been studied for its ability to boost testosterone, there is no conclusive evidence to suggest it directly treats erectile dysfunction. However, its effects on lowering stress and anxiety may indirectly benefit those experiencing performance issues linked to psychological factors.

Final Thoughts

Ashwagandha is a versatile herb with a long history of supporting men’s health, offering benefits from stress relief to improved physical performance and hormone balance. While the research is still evolving, it remains a powerful tool for those seeking natural solutions to modern health challenges.

Source: https://www.menshealth.com/uk/health/a31147772/ashwagandha-benefits/

New Report on Men’s Health Reveals Alarming Disparities Across the UK

A groundbreaking report on men’s health, supported by a University of York academic, has uncovered stark inequalities in health outcomes between the most and least deprived areas in the UK.

The report, informed by Professor Paul Galdas, exposes the severe disparities in premature death rates among men. In England’s most deprived regions, men are 81% more likely to die prematurely compared to those in the least deprived areas, reflecting a troubling trend in men’s health nationwide.

Shocking Premature Death Rates

The Movember report highlights that nearly two in five male deaths (39%) occur prematurely—equating to 133,000 men lost annually to preventable causes. These deaths could often be avoided through early intervention, lifestyle changes, and improved screening programs.

Professor Galdas, a leading expert in nursing and men’s health at the University of York’s Department of Health Sciences, has dedicated his research to developing practical, evidence-based strategies to improve men’s engagement with healthcare. His current work focuses on breaking down barriers that prevent men from seeking early mental health support.

Innovating Mental Health Care for Men

As part of his contribution to men’s health, Professor Galdas leads the BALM program (Behavioural Activation for Low Mood and Anxiety in male NHS frontline workers), funded by Movember. This initiative has been recognized as a model of good practice for addressing common mental health issues among men, highlighting the importance of accessible mental health care.

Geography of Health Inequality

The report paints a grim picture of how geography affects men’s life expectancy in the UK. For example, men living in Birmingham are more than 3.5 times more likely to die prematurely than those in Beckenham. Disturbingly, the UK is one of only two G7 nations where male life expectancy has declined since 2012.

Urgent Call for Change

One of the report’s most concerning findings is that nearly two-thirds (64%) of men delay visiting a doctor for more than a week after noticing symptoms, with 31% waiting over a month. Additionally, 62% of men have reported dissatisfaction with healthcare services, citing a lack of personal connection with their practitioners.

Movember’s CEO, Michelle Terry, emphasizes the urgency of addressing these disparities. “This report should be a wake-up call to the dire state of men’s health across the UK. For too long, men’s health has been sidelined. If we want to reduce these tragic numbers, systemic change is needed.”

A Call to Revolutionize Men’s Healthcare

Professor Galdas echoes this sentiment, stressing the need for comprehensive reforms in healthcare. “The alarming state of men’s health highlighted in this report is a tragic consequence of decades of neglect. We need to move beyond minor adjustments and adopt a transformative approach to healthcare and education that benefits all genders.”

This report serves as a powerful reminder that men’s health must become a priority in public health policy to prevent unnecessary loss of life and improve overall wellbeing across the UK.

Source: York.ac.uk

 

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