Life Care Center of Lewiston

4 SIMPLE WAYS MEN CAN TAKE CONTROL OF THEIR HEALTH TODAY

Provided by St. Joseph

Regional Medical Center and reviewed by Dr. Tyler Clark, Primary Care

Data published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that life expectancy for men is fi ve years less than women. There are several factors contributing to this statistic. So, how can men defy the stats and get and stay healthy? June is Men’s Health Month and here are four things you can do to give your health the attention it needs now.

GO TO THE DOCTOR: Often, men only visit the doctor when they absolutely have to – such as an injury. However, many medical conditions men deal with may not have obvious symptoms. Regular checkups can help you stay on top of your health and fl ag issues before they become serious. A primary care provider can also help you stay up to date with screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, colon and prostate cancer and more.

EAT WELL: A healthy, well-balanced diet will help ensure that you’re getting the nutrients your body needs, including vitamins, minerals, fi ber and lean protein. Planning ahead and even prepping meals in advance can help you stay on target. And, if you’re not sure where to start with a good eating plan, a dietitian or nutritionist can help. Another CDC health guideline includes limiting alcohol intake to two drinks or less in a day for men.

MOVE OFTEN: The benefi ts of regular exercise are pretty impressive: longer life expectancy; a lower risk for a number of common health issues; increased strength; and improved mental health. Exercise can come in many forms, too, so fi nd what works for you – whether it’s walking, lift ing, fi tness classes or a local intramural sports league. Talk to your provider before starting a new exercise routine.

DESTIGMATIZE MENTAL

HEALTH: Mental health plays a vital role in your overall well-being. If you’re suff ering from or have questions about anxiety, stress, depression or any mental health issue, there are two very important things to remember: you are not alone, and it’s OK to ask for help. Don’t hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional. Additionally, free and confi dential support is available for suicidal crisis and anyone experiencing any mental health issue.

Idaho Suicide Prevention Hotline is available 24/7 via call at 800.273.8255 or text to 208.398.4357, or chat online at idahosuicideprevention.org.

Your health is everything. Take control of it today so you can live tomorrow to its fullest.

If you are looking for a provider, St. Joe’s can help. Visit sjrmc.org to get connected with the care you need.

REHABILITATION

cud g a ber and lean pro ahead and even you stay on targe you’re not sure w ith d ti of blood. Smoking increases blood clot formations and blood pressure, which can raise the risk of stroke.

Added dangers

Tobacco use does not only aff ect the person who is using tobacco. Exposure to secondhand smoke makes nonsmokers vulnerable to cancer and other conditions. Developing fetuses exposed to tobacco chemicals when their mothers smoke during pregnancy may have brain and lung tissue damage, states the Mayo Clinic. Carbon monoxide in tobacco smoke can prevent fetuses from getting enough oxygen and adversely aff ect the delivery of nutrients. Smoking also raises a baby’s risk for birth defects, such as cleft lip and palate, and contributes to low birth weight and issues with placenta.

Quitting tobacco greatly improves one’s chances of avoiding a cancer diagnosis. It’s an important step to take to improve overall health.

RISK

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LIFE CARE

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