7 Health Tips for Every Man to Live By

Hey guys, when’s the last time you checked in with a doctor? How much exercise are you getting each day? (No, couch surfing doesn’t count.) Are you eating enough fruits and vegetables? (French fries don’t count either.)

1. See your doctor regularly. Choose a provider you trust and you’re comfortable with, so you can discuss your health care concerns openly. While seeing your doctor at least every year for a physical is ideal, if you’re healthy and in your 20s or 30s, schedule an appointment at least every two years. If you’re in your 40s and above see your primary care physician annually. Learn more about the screenings recommended for you as you age.
2. Eat well for a healthier waistline and a healthier you. That means enjoying a diet rich in fruits and vegetables; eating at least two to three servings of fish per week; and replacing saturated fats with healthy, unsaturated fats from sources like avocados, olive oil and nuts. The Mediterranean Diet is a great place to start.
3. Make movement a mainstay. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week. Keep in mind, even short bursts of physical activity add up.
4. Lower stress. Cultivate work-life balance, and find healthy ways to de-stress. Do something positive just for yourself every day, whether it’s reading for 30 minutes, going for a run or meditating. Personally, I practice mindfulness daily.
5. Value sleep. Practice good sleep hygiene and strive for a minimum of seven (ideally eight) hours of shuteye each night.
6. Kick the smoking habit and don’t drink too much. If you smoke, don’t quit quitting! Limit alcohol consumption to no more than two drinks per day. One drink equals one 12-ounce beer, four ounces of wine or one and one-half ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits.
7. Don’t ignore what’s below the belt. Exercising, eating right, reducing stress and getting enough sleep are four ways to help ensure sexual function and health. If you’re having any troubles in the bedroom or bathroom, you’re far from alone—and you shouldn’t go it alone either. Your doctor can help, so cast aside the embarrassment and just ask.