June is “Men’s Health Month,” and the week leading to Father’s Day is “Men’s Health Week” to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of diseases common among men.
Most guys would rather not think about their health. They defer to their partners, children or others to worry about it. Nevertheless, here are some general health tips that can benefit all men:
• Eat a nutritious, low-fat diet, containing less processed foods and more fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Attain and maintain a healthy weight. Talk to your doctor about your ideal weight and the safest way to achieve it.
• Get at least two hours and 30 minutes of moderate physical activity a week.
• Use June as an annual reminder to get your regular checkup, if due.
• Make sure your health maintenance is up to date, including age-appropriate screenings for prostate and colon cancer and abdominal aortic aneurysms.
• Stop smoking, drink in moderation, and avoid other risky behaviors that can lead to falls or accidents.
• If it’s time to stop driving, hand over the keys and use public transportation and local Dial-a-Ride services.
• Manage your stress. Make time for yourself to recharge by decreasing activities if you are overscheduled.
Gentlemen, follow these simple steps to a longer, healthier life, and you’ll make your partners and other family members happier too. Happy Father’s Day!
Dr. Sonja Rosen is a board-certified geriatrician with the top-ranked UCLA Geriatrics Program in Santa Monica and Westwood. For more information, call 310.319.4371.
