Making Moves this Men’s Health Week

Do you have a man in your life that should be going to the doctors more often than they do? Or, maybe you are the one that isn’t doing his best to take care of himself. If so, you’re not the only one! More often than not, men neglect their health until a serious issue arises. This is why Men’s Health Week is so important.

Men’s health week, which is observed leading up to and including Father’s Day (June 11-17^th), is all about men putting the focus back on their health and reducing the possibility of any future complications. During this week men are encouraged to reach out to professionals to receive the healthcare they need. The early detection and treatment of disease is crucial, and many health problems can be prevented with proper screening.

Did you know that men are half as likely as women to go to the doctors, and often ignore the warning signs that something is not right with their bodies? Men are also more likely to be diagnosed with cancer, with 1 in 2 men being diagnosed in their lifetime. This is why it is so crucial for you to know that there are steps you can take to regain control of your health!

Taking the Time to Focus on You

Eat well-balanced meals. Even though the summer is quickly approaching and grill season is upon us, remember that fruit vegetables and whole grains are important components of a nutritious meal. Try to limit your red meat consumption to once or twice a week and instead try a lean turkey burger or even a veggie burger! You can also incorporate more plant-based proteins like legumes and soy.

Get out and move. The warmer weather makes outdoor activities more enjoyable. Go for a bike ride, partake in a friendly game of volleyball or take your dog for a long walk after dinner. Regular exercise can help prevent heart disease and lower blood pressure. Research has shown that just 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day can have a major positive impact on your health. This can be become a fun activity to get your whole family or friends involved!

Schedule a check-up. Don’t wait over a decade to see the doctor. Regular check-ups can be key in the early detection of disease. Aim to make it to your yearly physical and follow-up with any important specialty doctors your primary care physician recommends, i.e. colonoscopies.

Listen to your body.If something seems off with your health, don’t wait until it becomes a major issue. If you feel that your body is not functioning the way it should, consult a doctor. If you are having any sort of hesitation about going to the doctor, talk to a loved one, they are there to support you and help you!

I encourage you to reach out to the men in your life and urge them to visit their doctor regularly and start taking care of themselves. Health care can be a scary topic, especially when something may be wrong, so it is important for friends and family to be there for support.

Whether it’s your brother, husband or father, let them know that you are there for them on their journey for a healthier life!

Your turn to take action: How will you support the men in your life and their journey to better health? Let me know in the comments below!