It may seem like a cliché, but statistics show that — when it comes to health — men really do like to play the “strong, silent type.” In fact, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data has shown that men are 33% less likely than women to see a doctor. That’s why Men’s Health Month is so important. June is the time to raise awareness about men’s health issues and encourage men to take advantage of the many resources available to keep them healthy.
Here are 5 ways to put your health first.
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Get up, get out and GO.
Exercise is key for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Your goal should be 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week. And you don’t need to make it boring! Switch up your routine with cardio, strength training, swimming, etc. to keep things interesting. But remember, even simple activities like walking, cycling or taking the stairs makes a difference!
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Eat like a champ.
A balanced diet helps your body put up its best defense against chronic illnesses and diseases. Your menu should include whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and healthy fats. Drink plenty of water and skip the sugary or fatty drinks, fast food and snacks.
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Take this tip to heart …
Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in men. Quitting smoking and limiting your alcohol consumption are two ways to be nicer to your heart. With the help of your Primary Care Physician (PCP), you can monitor your blood pressure, get tested for diabetes and find ways to reduce your stress.
If you don’t have a PCP, don’t worry! Log in to myBlueCross and select Find a Doctor to locate a doctor near you.
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Get tested!
Prostate, testicular and colon cancer are serious health risks for men and risk increases with age. Regular check-ups and health screenings can help catch potential issues early. Here’s another reason NOT to put testing off — most of these tests and screenings are covered by your Blue Cross plan.
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Remember that mental health is important, too.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has stated that over 6 million men experience depression annually. Add that to the stress and anxiety of our modern world, and you have a very real health risk. Don’t wait to ask for help. Consult with a mental health professional — it really makes a difference.
Visit AlabamaBlue.com/MentalHealth for mental health and wellness resources. You’ll find information about common conditions, helpful articles and an easy way to find one-on-one support.
Your Blue Cross plan is here to help.
Your Blue Cross plan is ready to help you stay on the path to wellness with a whole range of tools and resources that will support you at every step. Be sure to check out the myBlueWellness tool online and be sure to take advantage of the many preventive screenings and tests that are covered by your plan.