On International Men’s Day, Lifestyle Changes For Men To Help Stay Fit And Healthy?

International Men’s Day is annually celebrated on the 19th of November to celebrate their accomplishments and contributions to their families and communities. Here are some holistic lifestyle modifications for the men in your family, so they lead a long and healthy life.

What you need to know:

• Lifestyle
• Fitness
• Nutrition
• Mindfulness

Lifestyle:

• Men are at a higher risk of getting belly fat, which can raise the risk of obesity-related chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or stroke. Consult a dietitian to keep your health in check.
• Get your prostate checked. Prostate cancer is the second-most common cancer in men. Symptoms of prostate problems include trouble urinating, pain while urinating, or blood in the urine.
• Refrain from smoking and alcohol intake. Tobacco consumption poses a risk to your health, resulting in lung cancer or high blood pressure, and is injurious to your family’s health. Tobacco is even linked to poor mental health.
• Get 7-8 hours of adequate sleep and rest to optimize your insulin, testosterone, and growth hormones, which are vital for repair and energy production.
• Ensure routine screenings. Getting regular check-ups can help detect health issues before they become a problem. Consult your doctors about tests, preventive measures, and the best ways to stay healthy.

Fitness:

• Diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol are three common chronic conditions that are likely to develop in men after the age of 50. Therefore, get at least 30 minutes of exercise daily to stay fit and physically active, and improve your heart health. Maintaining your body mass index (BMI) and managing weight to prevent obesity is essential.
• You can try resistance training using your muscles to move weight in the form of dumbbells, kettlebells, or barbells. The muscles pull on the bones, and as a result, your bones get stronger.
• Working out boosts digestion, increases your appetite, releases endorphins that can improve your mood, and drives you to a healthier way of living. Playing sports, swimming, jogging, or walking suffice.

Nutrition:

• Consume a healthy breakfast rich in antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. A high-quality breakfast can boost your memory and lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.
• Choose healthy and nutritious diet options. Poor eating habits or diets that rely heavily on junk fried and oil food or animal protein can potentially cause DNA damage, which can lead to cancer. Avoid a diet containing red and processed meat.

Mindfulness:

• Men can pursue hobbies that take their minds off work and help them rejuvenate. Engage in activities ranging from hiking, trekking, reading, cooking, or travelling – any activity that makes them happy.
• Establish a social connection where men can vocalize their emotions, feelings, and vulnerabilities. Due to their gender conditioning, men often face difficulties in being vulnerable. This can impact their mental health.
• Unplug and take a break. Excess stress, if unattended, can lead to sleeplessness, digestive issues, heart disease, depression, or diabetes.

Celebrate International Men’s Day the right way. Stay active in the Activ Living Community to find more details on mindfulness and fitness.