We’ve all heard about menopause, but what about manopause?
Manopause, also known as andropause, is the male version of menopause; it is caused by a gradual decline in the level of testosterone, the androgen that gives andropause its name. The symptoms of manopause can include irritable male syndrome, weight gain, sleep apnea, memory loss, diminished libido, hair loss, erectile dysfunction, hot flashes, muscle loss, depression, fatigue, night sweats and gynecomastia, or male breasts.
The Chinese Medicine Point of View
Decline in potency is the most disturbing aspect of aging for most men. Manopause begins in mid-life when hormone levels decline and male potency is compromised. By middle age, many men have also developed plaque in the circulatory system, which further decreases blood flow.
Lifestyle Suggestions
Chinese doctors believe that men with erectile dysfunction benefit from cardiovascular exercise to reduce stress, improve heart health, and enhance circulatory function. Clams and oysters have a reputation as aphrodisiacs because of their naturally high level of zinc. Other foods that are high in zinc include beef and lamb, wheat germ, spinach, pumpkin and squash seeds, nuts, chocolate and cocoa, pork and chicken, beans and mushrooms.
Chinese Herbals
Chinese medicine enjoys a long history of success in reversing male impotence. Along with acupuncture and lifestyle changes, Chinese herbs like ginseng, morinda root, Chinese senega root and horny goat weed are prescribed to stimulate sensation, increase circulation, activate glandular function and stimulate hormone production.
Menopause in Women
Women have a different mid-life experience from men; they often note a waning of interest in sexual activity. This can be attributed to a decline in estrogen and testosterone, but other factors can include stress, poor self-image, fatigue and an aging partner.
Like men, women can benefit from acupuncture and positive lifestyle changes, in addition to female health-enhancing herbs like dong guai, wild yam, and ginseng plus warming spices like anise, ginger, pepper and turmeric.
May you Live Long, Live Strong, and Live Happy!
Dr. Mao Shing Ni, best known as Dr. Mao is a bestselling author, doctor of Oriental Medicine, and board certified anti-aging expert. He has recently appeared on “The Ricki Lake Show,” “Dr. Oz,” and contributes to Yahoo Health and The Huffington Post. Dr. Mao practices acupuncture, nutrition, and Chinese medicine with his associates at the Tao of Wellness in Santa Monica, Newport Beach, and Pasadena. Dr. Mao and his brother, Dr. Daoshing Ni, founded the Tao of Wellness more than 25 years ago in addition to founding Yo San University in Marina del Rey. To make an appointment for evaluation and treatment call 310.917.2200 or you can email Dr. Mao at contact@taoofwellness.com. To subscribe to his tip-filled newsletter, visit www.taoofwellness.com.
