Prioritize Your Physical Health
I recently lost a dear friend to colon cancer. Among his last words, as he was headed to hospice care was, “get tested.“
As men, we too often neglect our health, and don’t bother to get physical exams or even do routine things to protect our health. Eventually, this will catch up with us.
There is a reason that most of the residents of senior living centers are female: Men have died early because they haven’t taken care of their health.
Men, on average, die younger than women, and poor health practices are a contributing factor. This ranges from neglecting regular health check-ups to leading lifestyles characterized by unhealthy dietary habits, lack of physical fitness, and excessive stress. The societal pressure for men to embody strength and stoicism could discourage them from seeking medical help when they need it, leading to the progression of preventable diseases.
This trend, however, can be reversed. Awareness is the first step. Men should be encouraged to take proactive steps towards health management, including regular health screenings, maintaining a balanced diet, indulging in regular physical activity, and ensuring mental well-being. Adopting these habits can significantly contribute to longevity and improved quality of life.
This is a wake up call and a reminder to do better on this.
Get a physical every year. An annual physical is vital because it helps in early detection of potential health issues before they become severe. During such check-ups, doctors not only evaluate your current health status, but also screen for various conditions or diseases such as high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes.
The benefit of early detection is that it increases the chances of successful treatment, and can reduce the risk of serious complications. Furthermore, regular physicals provide an opportunity for you to discuss any health concerns with your doctor, ensuring you get professional advice on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Maintain a balanced diet. Being mindful of what you eat means making conscious decisions about the food you consume. Start by adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Aim to minimize processed foods and those high in saturated fats, sugar, and sodium. It's not just about what you eat but also about how you eat. Eating slowly, savoring each bite, and paying attention to feelings of fullness can prevent overeating. Also, staying hydrated is crucial for overall health. Lastly, remember that mindful eating is not about perfection but about making healthier choices more often. Consulting a nutritionist or dietitian can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs and health goals.
Build physical activity into your everyday life. Incorporating physical activity into your daily routine doesn't have to be daunting. It can be as simple as choosing stairs over elevators, parking your car a bit further from your destination to walk the extra distance, or even doing minor exercises during television commercial breaks. Structured exercise is beneficial, but incidental activities, like gardening and housework, also count. Regular walks, bike rides, or jogging sessions are great for cardiovascular health. Less vigorous activities like yoga can aid flexibility and balance. The key is to choose activities you enjoy, making it more likely you'll stick with them. Remember, every step counts towards a healthier lifestyle.
