A question I get often from my female patients – a million dollar question – is what can I do to help keep my man healthy?
While I do not know the guy in your life, I have seen many male patients over the years and I also happen to be married to one. I’ll tell you, while this sweet husband of mine may be an expert on pulling teeth (he happens to be a dentist), I have learned a thing or two over the years, helping him stay on track with his health. Although, I will say it isn’t such a struggle anymore! Based on years of experience, I offer you…
Simple Ways to Encourage Healthier Habits
1. Take it one step at a time
Remember that healthy living is a journey and it is to each his own. Rather than trying to single-handedly move a mountain overnight, trust that there will be opportunities to plant seeds along the way.
2. Keep it brief
Drop a line here and there. Print up an inspiring article and leave it lying around (maybe one of my posts from this week). Leave a post-it on his computer when it’s time to schedule his annual – and remind him to be open and honest with his doctor during the appointment! “Get your money’s worth.”
3. Acknowledge his positive habits
Take notice of healthy things he does and offer a little praise. “With all of that lycopene-laced salsa you eat you are going to have the healthiest prostrate on the block!”
4. Lead by example
Don’t talk…move! Your husband will be so inspired seeing you all aglow and energized after your nightly walk that he may just get off the couch himself.
5. Make it a team effort
Juice together! Fresh-pressed juices are delicious, offer an instant energy boost and provide a myriad of powerful nutrients in a single glass. Offer him a sip here and soon enough he will be making requests.
6. Appeal to his visual side
Add “and it keeps your hair follicles healthy!” as an automatic tagline to everything you suggest. Let’s face it, this will get his interest.
It’s true – premature hair loss will slow as he moves toward more optimal health. Addressing food sensitivities and boosting gut health, eating an anti-inflammatory diet, drinking detoxifying juices (such as this refreshing liver detox juice), and taking supplements I recommend for general men’s health all contribute to healthier hair follicles.
7. Ask for his help
Men love to support us so ask him to help you stay on track (*wink, wink*). Give concrete examples of how he can help – maybe you can go for a quick walk/run in the mornings, cook a healthy dinner together twice a week or move the coffee table and do some stretching during your favorite show.
8. Give health-focused gifts
Slip some high-quality supplements into a thoughtful gift. Whether it’s a bottle of B vitamins or an adaptogenic herb like ashwagandha, small gestures like this can help reinforce the message without being pushy.
Supplements for Men at Every Stage of Life
Supplementation can be an excellent way to support your husband’s health, especially when combined with other healthy lifestyle changes. Here are some suggestions for men at different points in their lives.
Baby Blues
Postpartum depression isn’t talked about enough in men, but it’s a very real issue. New dads often face increased stress, feelings of inadequacy, and overwhelming responsibility. One study in Pediatrics showed that new dads (who became fathers around the age of 25) noticed a 68% increase in depression symptoms over the next 5 years.1
If you notice that his blues are persisting, it’s important that he seeks counseling to keep himself and the family dynamic healthy. Supplements can also help. I often recommend a b-complex and ashwaganda (an adaptogenic herb that helps during times of stress) to help men get through this time.
Andropause (“Male Menopause”)
When men are in their late 30s to early 40s there begins a slow decline of testosterone levels. This subtle and gradual hormone shift is much different than the drastic change experienced by women as they stop ovulating, but over time it can cause symptoms such as sexual problems, fatigue, moodiness and loss of strength. These issues can be greatly counteracted with a healthy lifestyle – diet, exercise and supplementation as needed. Here are some supplements to consider:
- a daily b-vitamin complex
- arginine
- Gingko biloba
Your Role in His Health Journey
Supporting your husband’s health isn’t about controlling his choices—it’s about gently encouraging him and showing that you care. Whether it’s joining him for a healthy activity or surprising him with supplements that target his needs, small efforts can make a big impact.
What little tips and habits have worked for your family? We’d love to hear them!