Avellon Williams
TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO – It is not uncommon for men to neglect their mental and physical well-being, which may lead to them skipping check-ups and preventive screenings that can help them live longer, healthier lives. The health of men may be at risk if they do not take proactive measures.
Taking control of your health is easier than you think, and it begins with prioritizing prevention. These actions may help detect problems before they become more serious, from eating better to getting regular checkups with your doctor.
The creator of Yahsuh, a Caribbean dance fitness programme, Shani McGraham-Shirley, reveals that men can take preventive and proactive steps to improve their health regardless of health issues they encounter.
“In order to ensure men minimise or alleviate major health conditions, they need to recognise they are not invincible, but they are an investment with great returns. Once they put the time, effort and money into themselves, they can live longer, healthier lives and be able to make more money and utilise more time and effort efficiently,” McGraham-Shirley said.
According to her, healthy living involves eating well, getting enough exercise and sleep, avoiding alcohol, reducing stress levels, and having regular doctor checkups with executive profiles and prostate exams.
“Men buy beautiful luxury vehicles or sports cars. They care for them, service them regularly, using the purest gas versus the cheap stuff. They are mindful who they would allow to drive it. They see the value in the Porsche. If they can treat a tangible, replaceable object with such care, they can do better with self,” she said.
Taking preventative steps against potential medical problems is key to a long, healthy life.
• GET REGULAR CHECK-UPS
Maintaining good health and detecting early signs of serious conditions is made easier with regular check-ups. Screenings for cholesterol, blood pressure, skin cancer, and colorectal cancer should be part of your regular health care routine.
Dental checkups should also be scheduled. Regular dental visits and brushing and flossing are important ways to maintain good oral hygiene. Don’t be afraid to discuss your family health history and lifestyle with your doctor. It is important for your doctor to have a complete picture of your overall health, regardless of whether you smoke, drink or skip workouts.
• GET SOME EXERCISE
It is important to keep your body healthy and strong by exercising regularly. A physically active and fit man has a decreased risk of heart disease, which is the leading cause of death in men. Working out for the first time can be challenging, so consider working with a trainer or joining a group fitness class.
Consider other activities such as swimming, hiking, or playing football if you are not a gym person. In order to achieve the best results, make sure you incorporate both strength and cardio exercises into your workout.
• PORTION CONTROL
It might seem impossible to give up your favourite junk food, but try cutting back on it first. Serve smaller portions of unhealthy foods to reduce the amount you consume. If you want to control the portion of your chips, put some in a bowl instead of eating them out of a bag. Using smaller plates can help you eat less food while still feeling full. Choose medium French fries instead of large. The consumption of junk food can be reduced in a number of easy ways.
• EAT MORE GOOD FOOD
As you limit your intake of unhealthy foods, try eating more foods that are healthy. The importance of fruits and vegetables in a balanced diet cannot be overstated. Salads do not need to be served all the time. You can enjoy your favourite flavours with the health benefits you need when you substitute vegetables for your favorite foods.
• REDUCE STRESS
A high level of stress may cause weight gain, a decline in mental health, a higher risk of heart problems, and other serious side effects. Taking steps to reduce stress in your life is a good idea for men. Make an effort to reduce stressors if you cannot eliminate them. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to managing stress. By taking deep breaths, spending time with friends, exercising, listening to music, or using other relaxation techniques, you can stay calm.
• GO TO SLEEP
Get more sleep if these simple changes seem exhausting to you. It is essential to get adequate sleep throughout your life in order to maintain good health. Most experts recommend that you get at least seven hours of sleep per night. Switch off your electronics before bed and avoid caffeine late at night if you have trouble sleeping.
