7 ways men can stay healthy

Heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s Disease are among the leading causes of death of American men, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

With June being Men’s Health Month, Dr. Joseph Hobbs, chair of Augusta University’s Department of Family Medicine, says there is no better time than now for men to start taking charge of their health.

“Being in good physical shape is more than just about caring for ourselves, but it is about being healthy for our loved ones,” Hobbs said.” One of the best ways men can begin their health journey is by creating a positive environment that encourages a lifestyle that improves their quality of life.”

Below are few more tips Hobbs offers to help men get on track to living a healthier life:

• Watch your diet: Avoid processed food and focus on eating more fruits, vegetables and lean meats. Be sure to also stay away from foods high in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, sodium, and added sugars.
• Get moving: Exercise is one of the best ways to keep your heart and overall body strong. Aim to do about 30 minutes of moderate physical activity five days of the week. This can include walking briskly, mowing the lawn, dancing, swimming or playing sports such as tennis and basketball.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Once you have shed the pounds, keep it off by balancing the amount of calories from food with the calories you burn. If you find yourself gradually gaining weight again, try portion control and increase your physical activity.
• Check your mental health: Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Pay attention to the signs of depression or bipolar disorder, especially if you have a family history of mental illness, suicide or substance abuse.
• Visit your doctor regularly: Choose a doctor that you feel comfortable sharing your health concerns with and who can facilitate needed lifestyle changes to improve your health. Be sure to also keep yearly checkups.
• Get screened: Many diseases can be prevented or treated more easily when detected early. Consider getting screened for illnesses including obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, cancer, depression, diabetes and sexually transmitted diseases.
• Stay healthy: Prevent disease with scheduled adult immunizations.