7 Healthy Habits Men Need to Focus on Starting Today

The good news is that people are starting to recognize the unique health needs of men. The bad news is that not every man has gotten the message. While there are whole months devoted to women’s health needs like breast cancer, men don’t get quite the same airtime. That’s okay because there are many healthy habits that men can start doing today to reduce their risk of serious illness. Here are the easiest ones to focus on.

Follow this 7 Healthy Habits

1. Get Annual Health Screenings

Here’s your reminder that it’s time to get your annual health screening. While most men can get away with the typical cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, and thyroid checks, some might need more specialized testing. For men over 45 it’s especially important to get a fit test to check for colon cancer. There are many symptoms of polyps and cancer that go unnoticed because men don’t realize they are an issue. Cancer screening has come a long way and can even be done in the comfort of home.

2. Drink More Water (Less Energy Drinks)

You’d be surprised at how many guys don’t think they need more water. Their justification is that they drink enough already. The truth is that while energy drinks, coffee, tea, and alcohol are all beverages, they don’t hydrate you the same way that water will. In fact, alcohol has the opposite effect and dehydrates your body tremendously. You need more water because everything in your body functions on it. Whether you’re trying to build muscle, lose a few pounds, or stave off exhaustion, proper hydration helps with all three.

3. Eat Your Green Veggies

Meat and potatoes are delicious, and while there is nothing wrong with eating lean steaks regularly, it’s also important to consume more greenery. Green vegetables are filled with vital nutrients that your body needs to feel its best. Delicious options like roasted broccoli, asparagus, and a huge salad can go a long way to help aid your digestion and improve your focus and mental clarity. While you may be the kind of guy who swears off green vegetables, find a way to enjoy them even if it means giving celery one last try.

4. Reduce Stress

Did you know that younger men are more likely than younger women to have heart attacks? It’s believed that part of the reason for this is stress. Younger men typically take on more stressful and physically intensive jobs than younger women. By reducing stress, you reduce one of the causes of high blood pressure which is a risk factor for a heart attack. The solution? Reduce your stress levels. Some men experience a lot of stress at work, so this might mean looking for a less stressful job. It might mean exercising to blow off steam or it could mean finding a hobby that relaxes you.

5. Take a Day Off

Working hard is an admirable quality and one that a lot of employers appreciate. But make no mistake about it, burning the midnight oil, and avoiding taking your vacation time benefits only them. The truth is that work will survive if you take a day or two off every now and again. It’s a healthy habit that allows you to rest, relax, rejuvenate, or simply get projects done around the house.

6. Don’t Ignore Mental Health Needs

Men’s mental health needs often go ignored due to the stigma around them. In reality there is no shame in getting help when you feel overwhelmed, anxious, fearful, or even sad. Men experience all the same emotions that women do. They also have mental health needs just like women sometimes do. And when your emotions are affecting your sleep, your appetite, your performance at work, and even your relationships, it’s time to get help.

7. Get Adequate Rest

Whether you’re feeling under the weather, or you simply need better sleeping habits, rest is critical for health. One of the ways to get better sleep is to turn off technology about an hour or so before you go to sleep. This helps your brain wind down and can even improve your quality of sleep. When you’re sick, don’t go to work. Instead, take a day off to rest and recover. You’ll get better faster and be able to work with more focus when you’re better. These are just some of the ways that men can prioritize their health.