As the days become longer and the temperatures get warmer, it can be difficult for the hardworking men in your life to remember proper habits to stay healthy. With June being Men’s Health Month, its critical to remind men that their health matters not just this month, but all year round. So, take a look at the tips below and be sure to pass along these helpful hints to the guys in your life!
1. Schedule a routine check-up/screening: Remind all the guys in your life – no matter the age – that regular doctor check-ups are important to their health. Routine appointments can scan for any unsuspecting changes in a patient’s health that could lead to future health problems — body mass index, cholesterol and blood pressure. Regular check-ups are also helpful with identifying more serious health issues, such as certain types of cancers and diabetes/blood sugar levels. Regularly meeting with your doctor also gives you the opportunity to discuss changes or concerns you may have about your health.
2. Put good, fresh foods into your body: Having a healthy, well-balanced diet can do wonders for your health. In fact, decreasing the amount of sugars and fats you ingest not only lowers your cholesterol, but can also lower your chance of heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers. And since it’s summertime, fresh fruits and vegetables are all around for you to gorge on and still be healthy!
3. Get that body moving: Just 30 minutes of moderate physical activity several times a week gets your body goin’ and strengthens your health. From walking, running, basketball, mowing the lawn, swimming or playing a game of badminton, the guy in your life is bound to find a physical activity he enjoys and that’s good for his health! But what if he doesn’t have the time? No worries and no excuses. Research shows that short bursts of exercise – 10 minutes multiple times a week — can help improve one’s health. However, it’s important to talk to your doctor to figure out the best exercise path for you!
4. Do your best to de-stress: It’s summertime. And, while that may mean sunny skies and warm temperatures, work and bad news can come at any given time. The lawn needs mowed, but the pipes burst in the kitchen, and of course, household chores are piling up. Stop. It’s important to remind the men in your life (and, yourself included) to relax during stressful periods. Not only can stress take a toll on one’s emotional and mental health, but your physical health can also become affected. Notice the early warning signs of too much stress – teeth grinding/clenching, irritability and tension in the shoulders. Remember that summer is also the season for many to take a vacation or some extra time off to de-stress.