According to the Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other leading institutions, diseases such as heart disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and suicide are the leading causes of deaths among men. Syeda Kiran Zahra Hussain, Certified Holistic Nutrition Therapist, US, has listed out a few simple tips that men can follow.
#1 Eat healthy
Nutritious foods provide you with energy and may reduce your chances of getting certain diseases. Include vegetables, fruits and fat-free or low-fat milk products.
#2 Maintain a healthy weight
Being obese or overweight can increase your chances of getting a stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. Find out your body mass index (BMI) to check whether you are at risk or not. So, get more active, eat healthy foods and control your portion sizes.
#3 Get moving
Regular physical activity is the most vital thing you can do for your health. Search for a good easy exercise to start with.
#4 Be smoke-free
Smoking is associated with many of the leading causes of death, such as stroke, lung disease and cancer. Also, abstain from second-hand smoke.
#5 Get routine screening and exams
Ask your physician about how often you require to be examined. Always ask for screening tests for some conditions and diseases, including sexually transmitted infections, diabetes, high cholesterol, certain types of cancer and hypertension.
#6 Avoid drinking
Heavy drinking is linked to various cancers, high blood pressure, psychological problems and accidents.
#7 Manage stress
Balancing family and work obligations can be tough. However, it is essential to protect your physical and mental well-being. Find healthy options to help you cope with stress.
#8 Getting enough sleep
Lack of proper sleep can affect your mood and your health. Check with your health practitioner if you think you have a serious problem. Sleep apnea, is a common problem in which your breathing stops briefly, which can lead to certain health problems and accidents.
#9 Know your risks
Learn how your lifestyle may affect your risk of health problems. For instance, men who work with certain chemicals require to take protective steps. Learn to keep track of your family medical history and discuss this with your health practitioner.
#10 Stay safe
Safety stands for many things, such as wearing helmets, seatbelts, following safety rules at work and also having working smoke detectors. It also means using protection during sex, wearing sunscreen, washing your hands regularly and taking care of your teeth.
Source: Times of India
BDST: 1522 HRS, SEP- 05, 2015
Edited by: Sharmina Islam, Lifestyle Editor