Tips for a healthy man

Tips for a healthy man
July 7, 2007

Eat Healthy
"An
apple a day keeps the doctor away." There's more truth to this saying
than we once thought. What you eat and drink and what you don't eat and
drink can definitely make a difference to your health. Eating five or
more servings of fruits and vegetables a day and less saturated fat can
help improve your health and may reduce the risk of cancer and other
chronic diseases. Have a balanced diet, and watch how much you eat.Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity
is at an all time high in the United States, and the epidemic may be
getting worse. Those who are overweight or obese have increased risks
for diseases and conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure,
heart disease, and stroke. Eat better, get regular exercise, and see
your health care provider about any health concerns to make sure you
are on the right track to staying healthy.Get Moving
More
than 50 percent of American men and women do not get enough physical
activity to provide health benefits. For adults, thirty minutes of
moderate physical activity on most, preferably all, days of the week is
recommended. It doesn't take a lot of time or money, but it does take
commitment. Start slowly, work up to a satisfactory level, and don't
overdo it. You can develop one routine, or you can do something
different every day. Find fun ways to stay in shape and feel good, such
as dancing, gardening, cutting the grass, swimming, walking, or jogging.Be Smoke-Free
Health
concerns associated with smoking include cancer and lung disease.
Smoking triples the risk of dying from heart disease among those who
are middle-aged. Second-hand smoke - smoke that you inhale when others
smoke - also affects your health. If you smoke, quit today! Helplines,
counseling, medications, and other forms of support are available to
help you quit.Get Routine Exams and Screenings
Sometimes
they're once a year. Other times they're more or less often. Based on
your age, health history, lifestyle, and other important issues, you
and your health care provider can determine how often you need to be
examined and screened for certain diseases and conditions. These
include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, sexually
transmitted diseases, and cancers of the skin, prostate, and colon.
When problems are found early, your chances for treatment and cure are
better. Routine exams and screenings can help save lives.Get Appropriate Vaccinations
They're
not just for kids. Adults need them too. Some vaccinations are for
everyone. Others are recommended if you work in certain jobs, have
certain lifestyles, travel to certain places, or have certain health
conditions. Protect yourself from illness and disease by keeping up
with your vaccinations.Manage Stress
Perhaps
now more than ever before, job stress poses a threat to the health of
workers and, in turn, to the health of organizations. Balancing
obligations to your employer and your family can be challenging. What's
your stress level today? Protect your mental and physical health by
engaging in activities that help you manage your stress at work and at
home.Know Yourself and Your Risks
Your
parents and ancestors help determine some of who you are. Your habits,
work and home environments, and lifestyle also help to define your
health and your risks. You may be at an increased risk for certain
diseases or conditions because of what you do, where you work, and how
you play. Being healthy means doing some homework, knowing yourself,
and knowing what's best for you... because you are one of a kind.Be Safe- Protect Yourself
What
comes to mind when you think about safety and protecting yourself? Is
it fastening seat belts, applying sunscreen, wearing helmets, or having
smoke detectors? It's all of these and more. It's everything from
washing your hands to watching your relationships. Did you know that
men at work die most frequently from motor vehicle incidents,
machine-related injuries, homicides, and falls? Take steps to protect
yourself and others wherever you are.Be Good to Yourself
Health
is not merely the absence of disease; it's a lifestyle. Whether it's
getting enough sleep, relaxing after a stressful day, or enjoying a
hobby, it's important to take time to be good to yourself. Take steps
to balance work, home, and play. Pay attention to your health, and make
healthy living a part of your life.