Topics: Wellness
June is Men’s Health Month (June 11-17 is National Men’s Health Week). In the United States and around the world, individuals, organizations, and government agencies coming together to raise awareness and help men take greater responsibility for their own health. And if women’s health is more than breast exams then men’s health is more than prostates.
Here are some suggestions from the men at NEA HIN for a healthier life.
- Make an appointment (or encourage a man in your life to talk) with a doctor. When was the last time you saw your doctor? Even if “nothing is wrong,” remember that preventive care is easier and cheaper than the alternative. Good prevention includes building a relationship with a general practioner or internist, regular visits to the dentist, and finding the right other specialists you need. And don’t forget to ask your doctor about the immunizations you need. Plan for your next visit with some tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- Eat a healthy diet. Eat a variety of foods, including fruit, vegetables, animal or vegetable protein (such as meat, fish, chicken, eggs, beans, lentils, tofu or tempeh) and grains (such as rice). Limit the amount of saturated fat you eat. Use MyPlate to learn more.
- Exercise. Walk, dance, ride a bike, rake leaves or do any other physical activity you enjoy. Start small and work up to a total of 20-30 minutes most days of the week. Among the benefits of exercise are an improved memory, more energy, and a reduced risk of falls as you age.
- Maintain a healthy weight. This is much easier if you do the two things above. Balance the number of calories you eat with the number you burn off by your activities. Remember to watch portion sizes. Remember, a healthy weight is not a diet.
- Don’t smoke. But, if you do smoke, talk to your doctor about quitting. You can take medicine and get counseling to help you quit. Make a plan and set a quit date. Tell your family, friends and co-workers you are quitting and ask for their support
Bonus Tip: Learn about an issue affecting men’s health
Many issues affect men, here are a few of the most important. Learn more and share what you learn.
- Obesity and the related issues of high blood pressure and diabetes.
- Colorectal cancer
- Depression
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Prostate cancer