Food For Thought: Men's Health Month

Calcium-rich foods include low-fat dairy such as yogurt. These are especially important as men, as well as women, age.

June is National Men’s Health Month. The purpose of this observation is to raise awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment among males.

Did you know that on average, men are less healthy and have a shorter life expectancy? There are several reasons for this including men are more likely to work in dangerous occupations, they put off going to the doctor more often, and they are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors.

Knowing your risks for chronic disease and keeping up a healthy lifestyle and diet are keys to living longer and staying well. Here are a few tips to help you, or a man that you care about, celebrate Men’s Health Month:

1 . There are some conditions that affect only men, such as prostate disease and low testosterone. Proper screening tests can find help find these early, when they are easier to treat. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to get current with all health tests and screenings.

2 .   Get plenty of calcium. Vitamin D helps to maintain strong and healthy bones. Calcium-rich foods include low-fat dairy, dark green leafy vegetables and fortified cereals and fruit juices. These are especially important as men, as well as women, age. Check with your doctor or dietitian to determine if you are getting enough.

3.    Increase your potassium intake. Along with decreasing your sodium intake, potassium can lower your risk of high blood pressure. Choose low-sodium foods and use herbs and spices to reduce your sodium intake. Visit a local farmers’ market to purchase some locally grown fruits and vegetables, as they are the best source of high-potassium foods.

WORDS of WISDOM:
Life is like a roll of toliet paper  --- the closer it gets to the end , the faster it goes .
A day of worry burns more energy than a week's work .
Have a great day .