My diagnosis of inherited high cholesterol came when I was just 10 years old. When I was a child, my parents kept my levels in check through my diet. In my teens and 20s I played rugby at a high standard and the training prevented problems occurring. But when I stopped playing I put on weight, got out of condition and got into the habit of drinking in the evenings.
My cousin, who was just two months older than me, died of a heart attack aged 36. I realised I needed to change my lifestyle, so I cut down on drinking straight away and just have the odd glass of wine now and again.
I made some minor but necessary changes to my diet, switching from white bread to wholegrain and eating more fruit. I steer clear of the usual suspects such as butter, fatty spreads and chocolate. It means that I can treat myself to curries occasionally.
I got off the sofa, put on my old rugby training gear and started what turned out to be 18 months of torture that led up to me running my first marathon. I eat a lot of high fibre, low-fat cereal bars as they complement my training and help maintain my energy levels, but they don't upset my diet.
My wife helps me too since our children are also at risk of cholesterol issues. We're careful to eat the right kinds of foods such as oily fish. Two years ago we got ourselves an allotment and grow foods such as beetroot, carrots and green vegetables that are great for combatting cholesterol problems. The whole family has a healthy diet.
My marathon training not only helps me keep my arteries clear but it's also helped keep my stress levels low: I wish I'd done it earlier in life when anxiety was making me ill. Now my cholesterol level is low, my fitness levels are as good as they've ever been and I've run five marathons for Heart UK.
Tweak your lifestyle for better health
Keeping your cholesterol levels in check is a small step you can take to ensure you stay in the best possible health. Taking action to reduce your likelihood of suffering from another common ailment in men – bladder weakness – will boost your overall health too.
• Check your flow
If you experience pain when you pass urine, or your urine becomes cloudy, bloody or especially foul-smelling, talk to your GP as these can be symptoms of urine infections. Such infections can increase the likelihood of suffering from bladder weakness.
• Protect your prostate
Problems with your bladder can be related to problems with your prostate. Ensure your diet includes cooked tomato products, which are rich in lycopene and can help rid the prostate of germs. If you notice any prostate-related problems, speak to your GP straight away.
• Take Cover
TENA Men provides a range of discreet products designed to combat the symptoms and the varying severity of bladder weakness. TENA Men features a unique Lock Away Core™ system that contains micro-absorbents that lock in liquid and keep it away from the body. There's the added reassurance of Odour Control™ for guaranteed feel good freshness.
To find out more about bladder weakness and order a free sample, visit TENA.co.uk/men
