5 Tips to Improve Men’s Health
Men’s life expectancy in the U.S. continues to increase. A male born today can expect to live 79 years, well beyond the 54 years a 1920 birth date predicted. But men still face some unique health challenges.
Doctor’s Orders: Improving and Maintaining Men’s Health
Sleep. Getting at least eight hours of uninterrupted sleep is a challenge. But you can get on the path to better sleep by avoiding caffeine in the evening, exercising in the daytime and keeping a regular sleep schedule.
Exercise. Consistent aerobic exercise such as jogging, biking or rowing lowers blood pressure and improves heart function. A good target is 30 to 45 minutes of exercise daily, although overall health improves with any amount of exercise.RELATED: Prostate Cancer: The Prognosis Is Better Than you Think
Weight and blood pressure.
Monitor your weight and blood pressure. If you are above your target weight, eat fewer calories and increase your exercise to shed those extra pounds. Avoid fad diets — they are rarely of any benefit.
Check ups and screenings. See your doctor regularly for update on age-related screenings for conditions such as depression, diabetes and colon cancer that may be of benefit to you. This list of screenings specifically for men is a great resource to review with your doctor. (Ladies, we haven’t forgotten about you. Here’s a useful list of screenings for women that should be on your personal health radar as well.) Remember, vaccinations do not end with childhood. Many new vaccines — including those for shingles, pneumonia, and hepatitis — are recommended for adults. And your doctor can keep you apprised of the latest developments in prevention of illness and disease.
Make safety a habit. Wear your seat belt, use a helmet if you bike or climb, avoid excessive alcohol and do not use any tobacco products. Remember, accidental death and deaths from tobacco-related conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease and cancer, continue to outpace rates among women.
These common sense practices can go a long way toward better health, longevity and putting yourself on the path to wellness.
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