Fortunately, this path has two lanes and U turns are allowed and encouraged.  Get out there and really begin a consistent and persistent exercise regimen.  Walking is good, jogging is okay, bicycling is great, in line or roller skating works, and swimming is okay too.  Mowing the lawn counts if you’ve got to push the mower.  Gardening and yard work counts if you have a big yard and need to be working in it for an hour or more at a time. 

You’ll be surprised to know that not only will this exercise decrease your cardiovascular risks but will decrease your stress response, increase your stamina, strengthen your muscles, get rid of those plus sized love handles, and can restore your natural libido.

Remember, it really is your heart that holds your fate.   Taking care of your heart helps maintain a healthy cardiovascular system that allows for good blood flow through all of your vital organs.  

It’s tempting to be lured by the machismo suggestions in many popular electronic and print advertisements. Prescriptions for erectile dysfunction are to be taken seriously.  A full evaluation is necessary by your Primary health provider and possibly by an Urologist, a surgical specialist for the genital urinary system. 

You’ll want to make certain that the problem can be safely treated with these popular medications versus whether you’ll need some other intervention.  Recall, there is only the possibility of declining testosterone levels alone causing weakness and fatigue, in addition to erectile dysfunction.   

Whatever the cause, you’ll need to adopt a lifelong commitment to regularly scheduled follow up evaluations and adherence to the preventive measures provided by your health care provider.

These should include quitting smoking if you still do.

Eating a diet rich in a variety of deeply colored fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and rich in mono-unsaturated fats, while limited in all trans-fats and saturated fats.

Regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and to achieve a waist/hip ratio that is consistently below 0.85 is recommended.  This means that your waist (belly) should be smaller than your hips.  Fat around the belly (apple) raises the risk of cardiovascular disease compared to fat around the hips (pear).

Be sure to consult with your health care provider before beginning any new vigorous exercise program.  Get the green light, and then get going.  You'll feel great. You’ll be glad you did and those who love you will be too.