Is the man in your life getting the care he needs??
June is Men's Health Month so it seems appropriate to focus on the guys!
Did you know that on average, men die five years younger than women?
Men are also less likely than women to be insured. Did you know the top 5 causes of death among men are heart disease, cancer, stroke, COPD, and accidents? It only seems fitting to focus on the guys for a bit this June – especially since we’ll be honoring so many for Father’s Day. The good news is that many of men’s health problems are indeed preventable with just a few lifestyle changes.
First and foremost, it’s important for men to stop avoiding the doctor. More than 60% of men report avoiding regular check-ups. A simple check-up truly could save your life, so why not make it a priority to check in with your primary care provider once a year!
1. Eat Well
This doesn’t mean being perfect. I like to encourage the 80/20 rule. Make healthy food decisions 80% of the time and have that special treat 20% of the time. The less processed the better.
2. Move Your Body
The dreaded word “exercise” gets a bad rap, so I try to avoid using it. You don’t have to sweat, just move your body in an intentional way at least 30 minutes a day. Manual labor related to your job DOES NOT count. Take a walk, go swimming, or kick a soccer ball with your kids.
3. Get 7-8 Hours of Sleep Every Night
No, that was not a typo. You NEED 7-8 hours of sleep in order for your hormones to be produced correctly. Concerned that your testosterone is low? Try increasing your sleep and see if your symptoms improve.
4. Manage Your Stress
What is your coping mechanism for stress? Many men tend to resort to alcohol to help deal with stress since yoga and meditation are often labeled as feminine. However, I recommend you try yoga and meditation. You can even do it in the privacy of your own bedroom!
These few steps can drastically change your overall health and wellness. You can live a long, healthy life and an annual physical with your primary care provider can be of great benefit! Take steps today to prevent future disease.
