Staying in shape is important for men, but there are a lot of things they might not know about staying healthy. You probably know how to take care of your skin, or that it’s important to take preventative measures so you don’t get hurt in the first place. 

However, do you know the best way to stay healthy? Take a look at these 7 medical tips all men should hear!

1. Prioritize Sleep

Sleep is essential for many aspects of health, including mental and physical well-being, and it’s especially important as we age. Many men don’t get enough sleep because they think they can “power through” on less than the recommended seven to eight hours per night. 

However, skimping on sleep can take a serious toll on your health. A lack of sleep has been linked with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity, and memory problems. Not getting enough sleep can also lead to moodiness and irritability.

So if you want to stay healthy and happy, make sure you prioritize sleep. Get into a regular sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, and create an environment that promotes relaxation, such as darkening your bedroom and avoiding screens before bedtime. 

2. Schedule Appointments With Your Doctors

Scheduling regular appointments with your doctor is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Unfortunately, many men skip this crucial step.

There are a number of reasons why men might not see their doctor regularly. Some men think they don’t need to see a doctor unless they’re sick. Others may be too busy or think that seeing a doctor is expensive.

Whatever the reason, it’s important to make time for your health. At Atlanta Men’s Clinic, you can even get help with conditions such as low testosterone, sleep apnea, and erectile dysfunction. Regular check-ups can catch problems early and help you prevent serious illnesses down the road.

3. Know Your Family History

If you don’t know your family medical history, now is the time to start asking questions. Your risk for certain diseases and conditions can be higher if they run in your family. 

Knowing this information can help you and your doctor make informed decisions about screening tests, lifestyle changes, and other preventive measures that may reduce your risk.

4. Get Active

A sedentary lifestyle is one of the most significant risk factors for heart disease, so it’s important for men to get active and stay active. Regular physical activity can help reduce your risk of heart disease and other conditions, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and some forms of cancer.

Just 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity most days of the week can significantly improve your health. There are plenty of activities to choose from, so you can find something that fits your lifestyle and interests. Walking, jogging, swimming, biking, and dancing are all great options.

If you’re not used to being active, start slowly and gradually increase your level of activity over time. Talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have any medical conditions or concerns.

5. Give Yourself Permission To Take A Break

As men, we are often taught to be tough and to push through the pain. We are told that real men don’t take breaks, they just power through. However, this is not always the best approach, especially when it comes to our health. Ignoring symptoms and just powering through can lead to serious health problems down the road.

It’s important to listen to your body and give yourself permission to take a break when you need it. If you’re feeling run down or sick, take some time off to rest and recover. Don’t try to push through it as you’ll only make things worse in the long run.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you should take a break every time you feel slightly uncomfortable. If you’re dealing with a serious illness or injury, or if you’re just feeling completely exhausted, it’s important to give yourself permission to take some time off. Your health is more important than anything else, so don’t be afraid to put your well-being first.

6. Ask Your Doctor About Cancer Screenings

It’s important to have regular cancer screenings, especially as you get older. Talk to your doctor about which screenings are right for you and when you should have them. The most common cancer screenings for men are Prostate cancer screening, which usually being at age 50. Colonoscopies are also common once you turn 50 years old.

7. Stop Smoking

It’s no secret that smoking is bad for your health. If you’re a man who smokes, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health.

There are many resources available to help you quit smoking, including counseling, medications, and support groups. Talk to your doctor about which option is right for you. Quitting smoking is not easy, but it’s worth it. 

It’s so important to take care of yourself, both physically and mentally, so hopefully, these tips have given you some ideas on how to do just that.