We have just celebrated Father’s Day, so let us focus this month on the gift that keeps on giving to men: Moringa. Males tend to pay less attention to health and wellness than their female counterparts. They often think that terms like “superfood” are a load of false advertising to make money out of gullible health nuts. Why would Moringa (4 Men), a so-called superfood, be of any interest to the average bloke? It turns out that Moringa can be even more beneficial to men than women, so bear with us.
The phrase “superfood” refers to about only 1% of the diet that we consume – the title is typically reserved for natural foods that are especially super-charged with nutrient density, and low caloric content. If you Google “the most nutrient dense plant in the world” the search engine will list Moringa Oleifera at the very top of the page.
This tree that grows best under adverse circumstances like heat and drought, is also known as the Miracle Tree, or the Tree of Life. Every part of a Moringa tree can be used – from the leaves to the tips of the roots, including the flowers, seed pods and bark. The highest concentration of nutrients (with little to no side-effects), occurs in the leaves. Consequently, Moringa 4 South Africa’s supplements are made from certified organic Moringa foliage only.
Seeing that most males like to follow facts, we would like to present you with seven Moringa benefits for men, which are backed by science.
1. Moringa Improves Cardiovascular Health
Typically, men face a more significant risk of heart diseases than women. The heart is the body’s engine, and a diseased heart is the number one cause of death worldwide.
Traditionally, Moringa is used first and foremost as a treatment for cardiovascular problems like high blood pressure, atherosclerosis and arrhythmia. Its anti-inflammatory properties prevent mild or chronic inflammation in the heart’s vessels that may lead to cardiac arrest or stroke. Moreover, Moringa combats inflammatory hormones secreted in the body and aids the immune system in fighting illnesses that bring about an inflammatory response. Research shows that the polyphenols and isothiocyanates in Moringa heals inflammation. This is vital to support a healthy heart and avert the development of cancer. In addition, the presence of omega-3 fatty acids provides great heart health benefits.
Blood pressure variation is a key factor that determines whether someone will develop coronary artery disease (CAD), stroke, or peripheral vascular disease (PVD). Moringa leaves contain polyphenols that regulate the body’s blood pressure and blood flow. Furthermore, Moringa is a natural stress reliever which lowers heart rate and high blood pressure.
2. Moringa Enhances Prostate Health and Fertility
Moringa leaves are rich in sulphur-containing biologically active compounds like glucosinolates, which may reduce the risk of cancer. Research suggests it can counteract the development and spread of cancerous prostate cells. It can also prevent prostate hyperplasia, which typically takes place with aging. This happens when the prostate increases abnormally, which could lead to problems like sexual impairment and urinary complications. Moringa leaf extract significantly decreases prostate enlargement, as well as the prostate-specific antigen – a protein that causes abnormal prostate growth.
Men can cause or contribute to infertility problems in about 40% of cases. A low sperm count, or impaired sperm movement are the most common issues.
Moringa products have been used for thousands of years to increase fertility in men. The leaves are great sources of vitamins and antioxidants that ensure proper sperm production. These powerful components help to prevent oxidative damage that can interfere with sperm production and mobility, or damage sperm DNA. In fact, studies in both rats and rabbits have shown that Moringa leaf can significantly increase sperm count.
Furthermore, Moringa leaf extract may prevent the loss of sperm caused by excessive heat, chemotherapy, or electromagnetic rays emitted from cell phones.
3. Moringa Protects the Liver
The liver is the body’s engine filter or purifier. It fulfils the vital function of detoxification and removing impurities from the blood. A fatty liver caused by excess alcohol consumption, an unhealthy diet, or chronic inflammation, can be fatal.
Moringa breaks down fat and supports liver function naturally. It protects the liver by a backward oxidation process, counteracts fibrosis, and ensures essential liver activity. Studies show that Moringa can prevent liver injury and even restore normal liver function. Moringa is a well-established source of powerful anti-inflammatories and antioxidants. These reduce inflammation in the liver and counteract the oxidative stress caused by a poor diet and too much alcohol.
4. Moringa Lowers High Cholesterol
The leaves of the Moringa plant have the remarkable natural power to lower cholesterol levels in the body. They also provide protection against the abnormal formation of blood clots. The following compounds are responsible for achieving these wonders:
- Zeatin: a powerful antioxidant
- Quercetin: an anti-inflammatory that can also neutralize free radicals.
- Beta-Sitosterol: a nutrient that prevents the accumulation of LDL Cholesterol (bad cholesterol), as well as relieving inflammation.
A study published by the Indian Journal of Pharmacology and Toxicology in 2015, concluded that molecules called saponins found in Moringa plants, lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
In India, where the Moringa tree is endemic, the leaves are used as a cholesterol reducing agent for obese patients. Both animal- and human-based studies have indeed shown that Moringa Oleifera may have cholesterol-lowering effects. In fact, the reduction in cholesterol levels were comparable to those of prescription drugs.
5. Moringa for Muscle Gain and Fat Loss
Moringa is a complete source of protein, as it contains 18 amino acids (the building blocks of protein), including all 9 essential amino acids. Protein repairs and grows muscle and our miracle tree contains more of it than yoghurt and many legumes. This is extremely rare in a plant.
To replenish your body’s stores after exercise, you need to replace the electrolytes that were lost through sweating up a storm. Calcium, Magnesium and Potassium are the minerals most needed by the muscles to help stop cramping. Moringa leaf is a treasure trove of all the above. Moringa leaves also contain 36 anti-inflammatories to help you recover after an intense training session.
In addition, the massive stores of bio-available iron and Vitamin B’s in Moringa, see to it that your blood is oxygen rich. This ensures that it delivers more oxygen to the muscles, aiding in faster recovery. Moreover, it boosts energy and mental clarity to improve your sport performance. Moringa’s energy-enhancing effect work long-term. Rather than providing temporary stimulation like caffeine would, Moringa allows your body to accumulate and store energy for when it needs it.
Do you need to lose that spare tyre around your waist? Studies have shown that Moringa leaf supplements can prevent fat accumulation in the body. In addition, it speeds up the breakdown of fat already deposited. It is the ultimate gym jungle juice!
6. Moringa Improves Mental Health
Modern man is inundated by stress. It’s potentially devastating effects are felt both physically and emotionally. One in every five people will suffer from poor mental health at some stage in their lives. Many individuals battle with chronic fatigue and brain fog every day. Cases of Alzheimer’s Disease are increasing. Doctors prescribe antidepressants more often than almost any other medication today.
Fortunately, there is a natural alternative to help you cope with the mental and emotional challenges of modern life.
Adaptogens’ is the name of a substance that occurs in a group of very special plants. It greatly helps your body to adapt to stress and fatigue. Adaptogens bolster the health of your adrenal system (which manages your body’s hormonal response to stress). They also improve attention and endurance in the face of fatigue. To put it simply, they are nature’s chill pill, as they will help to calm you, while boosting your energy levels and immunity at the same time.
There is only a small handful of the world’s plants that qualify to be part of the exclusive adaptogen club. To become a member, a plant needs to meet extremely precise criteria: to promote general health, specifically reduce stress, and be perfectly safe and non-addictive. Moringa made the shortlist!
In summary, daily consumption of Moringa can make you calmer, more alert, capable, creative, and clear-thinking.
7. Moringa for Healthy Hair and Hair Loss
Nutrition plays a vital role in preventing and treating hair loss. It should be the first point of defense, instead of spending money on lotions and potions.
There are a few micronutrient deficiencies that cause hair loss. A deficiency in the minerals Zinc and Iron being the most vital. Other nutrients that play a significant role in preventing hair loss are Biotin (Vit. B7), Vitamin C, and Vitamin E. Moringa contains all of the above in copious amounts!
| Nutrient in Moringa | Hair benefit |
| Iron | Helps improve oxygen supply to your roots for better growth |
| Zinc | Helps damaged hair follicles recover more quickly |
| Amino acids (arginine, cystine, cysteine, lysine, methionine) | Building blocks of hair cells, promoting healthy hair growth |
| Vitamins C & E | Help fight against free radicals that cause hair damage and premature greying |
| Omega-3 fatty acids | Help thicken your hair strands |
Supplementing with Moringa can offer excellent results in treating hair loss. It is a natural, organic, and safe way to ensure that your crowning glory stays where it should – on your head and not on your hairbrush!
Read more about more Moringa health benefits here: What are the benefits of Moringa?
Also view: Moringa products south africa
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