Did you know that men in the United States die about six years earlier than women?* Between downplaying physical symptoms or being afraid to learn they might have a medical condition, most men are less likely to access regular medical care. This means that by the time they get to the doctor or an emergency room, it might be too late.

June is Men’s Health Month which is a great opportunity to encourage the men in our lives to take control of their health. They can reduce their risk for common diseases like diabetes, stroke, cancer and heart disease with six healthy choices:

1. Schedule regular checkups.
   Doctor appointments are an opportunity to get screenings or tests (like blood pressure or cholesterol) that may help detect problems before they become more serious.

2. Eat a healthy diet.
   A balanced diet will help maintain a healthy weight. Avoid packaged and processed foods are often full of sugar, salt, unhealthy fats, artificial additives, and calories. Choose fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grain options, fiber rich foods like beans and lean cuts of meat, chicken, and fish.

3. Engage in regular exercise.
   Both physical and mental health will benefit from regular exercise schedule. Spend 30 minutes a day walking, jogging, swimming, playing basketball or tennis, or any other aerobic activity. Don’t skip muscle-strengthening activities like weightlifting or body-weight exercises.

4. Reduce stress.
   Exercise will help work off some stress but engaging in downtime away from the pressures of everyday life will also help. Take days off when possible, find time to travel, enjoy hobbies and spend time with family and friends.

5. Stop using nicotine.
   Smoking cigarettes, using vape pens and secondhand smoke exposure can cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and heart disease – and increase the risk of cancer. Find help to kick this dangerous habit.

6. Reduce alcohol consumption.
   Drink alcohol in moderation – stay under two alcoholic drinks a day. Less is preferred.

* https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/life-expectancy.htm