Men’s Health – The Silent Threat After 40
Metabolic syndrome – sometimes referred to as ‘affluence syndrome’ – is not a single disease, but a combination of several health problems: obesity (especially abdominal obesity), elevated blood sugar, impaired fat metabolism and high blood pressure. Men in the second half of life are particularly affected, often without realising it. The consequences can be severe: the risk of heart attack, stroke and type 2 diabetes increases significantly.
Keeping Health in Check
Taking Action Early
According to estimates by the German Nutrition Society, around one third of men over 40 meet the criteria for metabolic syndrome – many without knowing it. Tiredness, concentration problems, weight gain, a feeling of ‘inner sluggishness’ or low testosterone with reduced libido are often not recognised as medical warning signs.
High blood pressure can also remain undetected – yet it silently damages blood vessels and organs. It is one of the main high blood pressure causes behind serious conditions such as heart attack or stroke.
Early Warning Signs
Metabolic syndrome affects many men over 40 – often unnoticed. Recognising warning signs early is key to preventing heart attack and stroke.
Possible indicators:
- Fatigue and reduced performance
- Weight gain, especially abdominal fat
- High blood pressure – often without symptoms
- Loss of libido or erectile dysfunction
- Concentration problems and inner sluggishness
Early detection and lifestyle changes are crucial to lowering risks and maintaining long-term metabolic health.
Causes and Effects
Lifestyle, Inflammation & Hormones
Causes & Risk Factors
The main causes usually lie in an unhealthy lifestyle: poor diet, lack of exercise, alcohol consumption, chronic stress and sleep deprivation. Smoking and excessive sugar intake can further strain the metabolism and increase inflammation. Chronic inflammatory processes, often originating in the gut, also play a key role. A disturbed gut microbiome can promote systemic inflammation, destabilise fat metabolism and trigger hormonal changes. Gut health therefore plays a central role for men – in both prevention and therapy.
Physical & Psychological Effects
- High blood pressure: Impairs vascular function, including in the genital area, and may contribute to erectile dysfunction.
- Abdominal fat: Releases inflammatory substances that disrupt hormonal balance.
- Low testosterone: Common with insulin resistance and obesity, reducing libido.
- Mental stress: Chronic fatigue, stress or lack of sleep lower sexual desire.
- Gut health: A disturbed microbiome can exacerbate inflammation and disrupt hormonal balance.
Low Testosterone & Heart Attack Prevention
Protecting Hormones & the Heart
Low testosterone not only affects libido but can also promote muscle loss, fat gain and reduced energy. At the same time, metabolic syndrome is a serious risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Effective heart attack prevention starts with comprehensive diagnostics and sustainable lifestyle changes – supported by tailored medical care.
Therapy & Prevention at Park Igls
Holistic and Effective
Modern Mayr Medicine offers effective approaches to regulate metabolism, reduce inflammation and promote gut health. Regular health checks, physical activity, a balanced diet and targeted detox programmes help treat or prevent metabolic syndrome.
At Park Igls, men and women receive personalised support – with the goal of staying healthy and full of energy in the long term.