Men, Do You Get an Annual Checkup?

Are you feeling healthy this week? I certainly hope so. The reason I ask is because this week is Men’s Health Week. Each year it runs through Father’s Day.

Men’s Health Week is observed from June 14-20 this year, so it officially began a couple of days ago. But there’s still plenty of time to get on board with it. 

The purpose of the week is to heighten awareness of preventable men’s health problems. And to encourage early detection and treatment of disease.

During this week, healthcare providers, public policy makers, the media and individuals have the opportunity to steer men toward seeking regular medical advice and treatment.

 Why is something like this needed? Because men are infamous for avoiding the doctor’s office. We tend to ignore unusual symptoms rather than getting them checked out.

An annual checkup is essential to keep an eye on issues we know we have. As well as some we’re not yet aware of. But too many of us skip this important step. Sometimes year after year. 

Seeing our doctors at least once a year is crucial for good health. But there are many additional things we can do for our health during the other 364 days of the year. You already know most of them, but a quick review can’t hurt.

They include eating nutritious foods, getting plenty of exercise and watching our weight. Plus taking vitamins, breaking unhealthy habits and protecting our skin.

Eat Right and Stay Active 

Eating right means consuming plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. As well as whole-grain products and fiber-rich foods including beans and leafy greens. Lean cuts of meat and fish such as salmon provide protein and omega-3 fatty acids.   

As much as possible, avoid packaged and processed foods. They often contain excessive amounts of sugar, salt, unhealthy fats, artificial additives and calories. 

How and how long you exercise depends on a variety of factors. Including your age and health condition. But aim for 30 minutes per day, five days a week.

Aerobic exercise could be anything from a brisk walk or running to swimming, tennis, basketball or other sports. And don’t forget muscle-strengthening activities, including weight lifting. 

Moderation Key to Wellbeing

Losing extra pounds is not just about looking better and fitting into your clothes again. It can be essential for avoiding serious health issues.

If you’re getting all the vitamins and minerals you need through your diet, kudos to you. But many of us aren’t. Vitamin supplements can help.

Breaking bad habits is another way to improve our health. Quitting smoking is a no-brainer. As is avoiding excessive amounts of alcohol and drugs.

Protect your skin from too much sun exposure. When outdoors, use sunscreen and spend some time in the shade.

Health Week Activities

There have been many more activities connected to Men’s Health Week than I have room for here. I’ll just mention a few.

The Men’s Health Network hosts the annual Congressional Men’s Health event in Washington, D.C. Among this event’s partners have been the Dean and Betty Gallo Prostate Cancer Center and the National Institute of Mental Health. 

The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health promoted “Meatless Monday.” It’s a national campaign to help Americans prevent a variety of serious health concerns.

Edwards Air Force Base in California conducted a Men’s Health Fair. For military, civilian employees, families, friends and guests. It included screenings, and exercise and running demonstrations. Plus an Ask-a-Doc booth.

The American Heart Association joined with other health agencies and churches to sponsor a Men’s Health Fair. It included free health screenings and a heart-healthy lunch. As well as a healthy cooking demonstration and a fitness demo.  

Men’s Health Month

In addition to the focus on men’s health from June 14-20, this entire month is considered Men’s Health Month. It’s been observed since 1994. 

As with Men’s Health Week, the focus is on improving one’s health. And the primary ways to do that are through diet, exercise and good lifestyle choices. 

The medical community encourages men to:

• Know your preventable risks
• Take steps to create healthful habits
• Schedule routine tests for early detection of disease
• Learn your risk factors
• Document your family history with your physician

They also suggest that men observe this month by:

• Making a commitment to have a health checkup
• Considering lifestyle changes to improve their health
• Talking to their physician about next steps
• Taking a walk with a father, brother, son, friend or co-worker
• Cooking a healthy meal

Do You Want to Be the Ultimate Male?

Taking care of our health is a year-round proposition. But it’s important to periodically bring awareness to the issue by designating a week and a month to the concept. 

As you know, the Patriot Health Alliance offers a wide variety of health-related products. One that is dedicated to men’s health is Ultimate Male.

Common toxins – including those found in drinking water, prescription pills and over-the-counter drugs – can lower testosterone levels. Which can trigger fatigue, weight gain and problems in the bedroom.

But Ultimate Male raises testosterone and dopamine levels while lowering estrogen levels. And adds four proven potency boosters.     

In honor of Men’s Health Week, why not grab a great deal. Right now you can get five bottles of Ultimate Male for the price of three.