Healthy Foods Help Men Prevent Illnesses

Many men worry about heart disease, diabetes, cancer and stroke.

But there’s an easy to help prevent these illnesses.

Look at your plate.

Is it filled with nutritious fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein?

Earlier this month, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics launched a public awareness campaign to help men figure out the best foods for their health. The initiative was part of  National Men’s Health Week held in June.

“A nutrient-rich diet and a healthy lifestyle are your strongest line of defense against preventable illnesses, like heart disease, diabetes, cancer and stroke, said Registered Dietitian Jim White, who is also the spokesman for the Academy.

“Even small steps towards a healthier lifestyle can really add up over time, giving you a much better chance of staying strong and in the game as you age.”

White gave the following recommendations for a healthy diet for men:

• Fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables. “Be sure to include tomatoes or something made from tomatoes like pasta sauce because research indicates that the antioxidant lycopene found in tomato products may help prevent prostate cancer,” White said.
• Eat whole grains. Replace refined grains with whole-grain bread, cereal, pasta, brown rice or oats.
• Men under the age of 50 should eat at least 38 grams of fiber daily. Those older than 50 should eat 30 grams of fiber.
• Choose unsaturated fats such as oils, nuts and salad dressings. Avoid saturated fats in dairy foods, butter and high-fat sweets.
• Eat fruits, vegetables, fish and milk to reach 4,700 milligrams of potassium daily.
• Reduce sodium to no more than 2,300 milligrams daily. It’s about one teaspoon of salt.

Source: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics press release

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