• Walking for just 30 minutes a day can help reduce your risk for many health problems, including diabetes and cancer. Doctors recommend 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise every week (brisk walking, riding a bike, pushing a lawnmower) or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity (running, jumping rope, swimming). You don't have to spend long hours in the gym. Being active for short periods throughout the day is just as beneficial to your health. Do yourself and your health a favor and start taking those steps!

• Men who sleep 7-8 hours a night reduce their risk of heart disease, heart attack, heart failure, irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, stroke, and diabetes. To improve your body's sleep patterns, go to bed and wake up at the same time every day (even on the weekends). Being cautious of your caffeine intake later in the day, limiting your nap time, shutting off electronics one hour before bed, and taking a relaxing bath or shower before bedtime can help you fall asleep and stay asleep.

• According to the CDC, alcohol use increases the risk of cancer of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, and colon, which are more common among men. Drinking alcohol also increases the risk of prostate cancer and can affect your emotional well-being. If you must drink alcohol, drink it in moderation by limiting yourself to 2 drinks or less a day. Quitting drinking may be a better option for you than moderation or cutting down, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). Whatever your decision— to cut down or to quit drinking— there is support available to help you meet your goals. Please visit www.samhsa.gov or call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for a list of resources.

• The suicide rate among American men is almost four times higher than among women, according to the CDC. It takes a strong person to admit they need help. You do not have to suffer alone or in silence. Please visit NAMI.org for resources near you or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention, and crisis resources for you or your loved ones. 

• Heart disease is the leading cause of death among American men. Regular physical activity, eating a healthy diet, limiting alcohol intake, not smoking, getting enough sleep, and managing stress are all ways you can prevent heart disease.

Studies have shown that men tend to visit the doctor less than women. An annual physical exam lets you and your doctor assess how you are doing health-wise, regardless of whether you are feeling symptoms or not. It can also help your doctor catch early symptoms of serious conditions before they become a life-threatening problem. 

Schedule your annual physical at FoundCare. Call 561-432-5849 to schedule today!