Top Health Tips for Men
While genetics and luck play a role, your health is largely in your hands. Whether you are trying to reduce the risk of prostate cancer or lower your blood pressure, there are specific things you can do to take charge of your life and live longer and stronger.
In celebration of Men’s Health Week, here’s nine top health tips for men:
Eat Right. Following a healthy diet isn’t easy. Temptation is everywhere. And while fast food may be a quick fix, it shouldn’t be a daily staple. Research has shown that some of the best foods for men include broccoli, edamame, oysters, baked potatoes and tomatoes. Adding these nutrient rich foods to your diet can help reduce your risk of prostate cancer and high blood pressure — and increase your fertility.
Maintain a Healthy Weight. It’s no secret that obesity is widespread in America, but did you know it is also linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer, especially in African American men? Being overweight also raises the risk for other cancers, heart disease and diabetes. For those who are overweight or obese, even losing a small amount of weight has significant health benefits.
Exercise. There are numerous reasons why men should exercise. Exercise has been proven to increase self-esteem, fight dementia, ease anxiety, boost weight loss and lower your risk of diabetes.
Toss The Tobacco. Smoking is estimated to kill more than 480,000 Americans every year. It can cause cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung disease, diabetes and emphysema, among others. It’s never too late to quit and the benefits of quitting are realized almost immediately.
Avoid Heavy Drinking. An occasional drink isn’t an issue for most people. Drinking too much on a regular basis, however, can lead to long term problems, including liver disease and digestive problems. For men under age 55, moderate drinking is considered two standard size drinks a day.
Manage Stress. Everyone gets stressed out from time to time. That’s normal. Too much stress, however, can be harmful and cause severe medical conditions, including chest pains, digestive problems, elevated blood pressure and sexual problems. To ease your stress, experts recommend exercising, meditation, drinking alcohol in moderation and adhering to a routine.
Get Some Shut-Eye. Not getting enough sleep not only leaves you cranky – it’s unhealthy. Sleep deprivation is associated with a number of chronic conditions, such as diabetes, obesity and depression. It can also be attributed to car and machinery-related accidents, causing substantial injuries and disabilities each year. The National Sleep Foundation recommends seven to nine hours of sleep per night for adults ranging in age from 26 to 64.
Know Your Numbers. Have regular cholesterol and blood pressure tests. High cholesterol and high blood pressure are “silent killers,” which can contribute to congestive heart failure.
Laugh. Laughing not only eases stress, it can lower your blood pressure and boost your immune system. Go ahead, add some humor in your life.
The McDonald Law Firm supports Men’s Health Week and encourage all men to lead happy, healthy lives. Regrettably, thousands of men are suffering right now from prostate cancer, heart failure, diabetes, depression and other serious medical conditions that make it impossible to work and bring home a paycheck. If you are expected to be out of work for at least a year, you could qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. We can help. Call us today at 877-568-8413.
