April 20, 2015

The Surprising Top Threat To Men’s Health

Photo by Ben White on Unsplash

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the top causes of death for men in the United States are heart disease, stroke, cancer and respiratory disease. However, many of these causes of death can be prevented with lifestyle changes – surprisingly, the top health threat to men’s health may be themselves!

Here is what you can do to significantly lower your risk of developing these diseases and conditions –

Stop Smoking – According to Healthline.com, 20 minutes after you quit smoking, your heart rate will drop back to a normal level. Twenty-four hours after you quit, your risk of a heart attack dramatically drops from the high rate of 70% for smokers. Two to three weeks after you quit, you will be able to resume exercise without feeling winded or sick. Your circulation and blood pressure improve significantly as well – all of these factors contribute to your overall health.
Start Eating Healthy – Be sure to include vegetables, fruits, nuts, whole grains, fibers and proteins in your diet regularly to keep your body functioning as well as possible. Losing excess pounds and maintaining a healthy weight can lower your risk of heart disease and many types of cancer.
Limit Alcohol Consumption – Moderation is key! Some cancers, like liver cancer, seems to increase with the amount of alcohol you drink on a regular basis. The more alcohol you drink, the higher your blood pressure will be as well.
Manage Stress and Anxiety – Go for a run or hang out with the guys to blow off the stress and anxiety brought on by the office or at home. Taking time to relax is very important in reducing stress, which in turn reduces both physical and mental health issues.
Regularly Visit Your Doctor – Men always seem to put up a fight to go to the doctor. But your doctor is the only person able to diagnose and treat any conditions you already have, or are at risk of developing. Sometimes, sluggishness may actually be a more threatening condition!

Always remember to keep yourself moving and your stress level as low as possible. It’s true – some diseases are genetic, but many are caused by lifestyle choices that you have complete control over. Don’t wait for a diagnosis! Start talking to your doctor about how to prevent conditions and diseases before your lifestyle gets the best of you.

Source: http://www.mayoclinic.org