Health Tip: Male Menopause

(HealthDay News) -- For men who believe they are going through the proverbial midlife crisis, some doctors say you may actually be experiencing andropause, a male version of menopause.

Andropause is becoming more widely recognized and accepted by physicians for the changes many middle-aged men experience -- from depression and loss of libido to sexual dysfunction.

According to Australia''s Monash University Medicine, Nursing and Health Services, here''s what you can do to alleviate symptoms of andropause:

• Maintain a healthy diet, which includes a balanced amount of vegetables, fruits, meats, fish and diary products.
• Engage in regular exercise, including aerobic, muscular, and flexibility activities.
• Get regular health checkups. Regular health care visits and screenings can help prevent conditions such as heart problems, stroke, and cancers of the testicles and prostate.
• Check hormone levels as you get older. Generally between ages 40 and 55, a number of important hormone levels in a man''s body begin to decline.
• Reduce stress and worry. Stress is a major source of trouble for men at midlife. Exercise and relaxation help reduce stress, as does talking to your partners, friends, and family about your problems.
• Get plenty of sleep.

-- Nancyann Rella