June Is National Men’s Health Month
June is National Men’s Health Month. This is the month men should be encouraged to evaluate their lifestyle and start making healthier choices. This month serves as a reminder for men to schedule their doctor appointments and physical, workout more, and make healthier food choices.
Men are highly recommended to schedule their annual physical which typically includes blood work to check cholesterol as well as blood pressure. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for men. Cardiovascular diseases often refer to atherosclerosis, which medically means “the hardening of arteries.” In Latin, atherosclerosis means “a man’s worst enemy.” Cardiovascular diseases are caused by cholesterol blocking arteries leading to the heart and brain. If these arteries are blocked, it will cause a blood clot leading to a stroke or causing a heart attack.
Ways men can avoid cardiovascular disease is through proper monitoring via annual physicals but also lifestyle choices. This helps to be aware of the situation and taking action immediately. Increase physical activity to about 30 minutes per day most days of the week. Lastly, eat more fruits and vegetables and avoid trans fat.
Everyone knows cars are like the body; we are only as good as the food we run off of. That is why it is important to stick to a healthy diet. For men, maintaining a healthy diet can maintain muscle mass, prevent certain cancers and heart disease (the No.1 and No. 2 killers of men) and much more. The most recommended food for men is oysters. Just a few oysters each day will provide a full supply of antioxidant mineral zinc. Zinc is known to prevent cellular damage that can lead to prostate cancer. Bananas are next on the list. Bananas are rich in potassium and magnesium, which helps increase energy, regular’s nerves, heartbeat and blood pressure. Diets full of potassium and magnesium and help reduce the risks of stroke. Third are fatty fish. Fatty fish includes healthy fat, omega-3, and fatty acids. These fats benefit the heart, circulation, and immune system and reduce the risk of prostate cancer. What you can eat to obtain these healthy fats and omega-3 are salmon, sardines, tuna, mackerel, and herring.
We are well into June and if you haven’t already kick-started a healthy life, it’s never too late to start making healthier decisions.
