Did you know, on average, nearly one in two men run the risk of developing cancer in their lifetime? While an alarming statistic for some, in 2021 alone, this statistic will become a reality for an estimated 970,250 men in the United States.

Cancer isn’t the only health-related issue men should worry about, though. Heart disease, arthritis, obesity and type 2 diabetes are some of the most prevalent – but preventable – diagnoses among men. While women’s health heavily dominates health-focused conversations, it’s more important than ever that we shed the proper light on the health of all.

June is Men’s Health Month – a month dedicated to raising awareness of the preventable diseases and other health concerns men most often face. Here at HealthLinc, we can’t fulfill our mission of creating healthy communities unless all community members are healthy. That’s why today we’re sharing five quick tips to help you and all the men in your life stay healthy and happy for years to come.

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is one of the most important factors of our overall well-being. An insufficient amount of sleep is linked with various chronic diseases and conditions. On average, adult males should get seven or more hours of sleep each night. Practicing good sleep hygiene, such as going to bed at the same time every night, avoiding caffeinated and alcoholic beverages close to bedtime and creating a dark, cool environment, can help you to enhance the quantity and quality of sleep you get each night.

Stay Active

Getting the recommended 30 minutes or more of exercise each day does more than help control your weight. Implementing a regular exercise routine can help prevent and/or manage some of the most prevalent health concerns and diseases. Studies have even shown that the risk of developing various types of cancer – including bladder, colon and kidney – decreases in those who are regularly active.

Creating a workout routine that includes varying degrees of aerobic, cardiovascular, strength and stretching exercises can help keep you stay in shape, support your heart and boost energy levels.

Eat Right

We all know the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away!” While essential to visit your primary care doctor for regular check-ups, there is truth to that statement. Keeping your diet clean and full of nutrient-rich foods helps promote and maintain a healthy body and mind.

While healthy diets look different for everyone, there are general guidelines that can help you to determine what your body needs to stay happy:

• Pack in the protein-rich foods to feel fuller and more energized longer. Including foods such as eggs, nuts, beans and lean meat in every meal can help you get in protein.
• Load your plate with a variety of fruits and vegetables to maximize your nutrient intake. Adding spinach and bell peppers to your morning eggs and replacing your sugary mid-day snack with a piece of fruit are great ways to sneak in extra servings.
• Cut down on sugary foods and drinks to lower the risk of severe health issues such as heart disease. Replacing your dinner-time soda with water and eating whole-grain, heart-focused cereals can make a drastic difference in your sugar intake each day.

Mind Your Mental Health

Mental and emotional health is just as important as physical health and should be treated as such. If you’re feeling unwell on the inside, the outside is sure to follow. Unfortunately, men are less likely to reach out when suffering from mental health-related issues than their female counterparts, resulting in an increased risk of drug and alcohol abuse and even death.

While taking care of your physical body through adequate amounts of sleep, regular exercise and a proper diet can help keep you feeling your best, taking extra steps to improve your mental well-being is also essential. Finding ways to manage stress, such as scheduling time for yourself to decompress or take part in your favorite hobby or meeting with a behavioral health expert to discuss issues that are troubling you, are excellent first steps to taking mental and emotional health into your own hands.

Find the Right Doctor

It’s important to speak with your doctor before making substantial lifestyle changes. While men are less likely than women to visit their physician regularly, getting established with the right doctor is one of the most critical steps to take charge of your health. Even when you feel and look healthy on the outside, it’s vital to receive your annual physical to ensure every part of your body is in good shape.

Here at HealthLinc, we have physicians and specialists from all walks of life ready to help you gain control of your health. With 12 full-service clinics scattered across Northern Indiana, two telehealth clinics, two community pharmacies and a mobile clinic, we make prioritizing your health more accessible than ever. To schedule a wellness visit at your nearest clinic, call 1-888-580-1060.