Incontinence Advice
Health Tips For Men To Ensure You Feel Your Best
Men’s health tips: there are numerous examples online in regards to what you should and should not do to improve your health - but what are the right answers? Find out in this article now. Maintaining good health in men is essential to living a fulfilling life, but it can be challenging to know where to start. With so much information about what’s good or bad for our bodies, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. In this detailed article, you will find our recommendations for the best 12 health tips for men, from diet, to working out, lifestyle changes, visiting a healthcare professional, and more. Regardless of age, these health tips for men are suitable for all age groups in order to improve health and wellbeing.
The key components to achieving optimal health for men involve:
Maintaining balanced hormone levels.
Regular exercise.
Consuming a nutritious, balanced diet.
Prioritising mental and physical health.
Cutting out anything hazardous to health, including alcohol and smoking.
Checkups with a GP.
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A healthy diet
When it comes to diet, there is no one-size-fits-all. All bodies are different. Even the NHS has put forth the eatwell guide for further details. In short, these are the main factors to consider in diet tips for men:
Fruits and vegetables: Consume at least five 80g servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Whether fresh, frozen, canned, or in juice form, they provide essential nutrients. More details can be found in our bladder cleansing foods guide.
Whole grains: Incorporate at least three servings of whole grains like oats, brown rice, and quinoa into your daily meals. These are foundational for a diet rich in fibre and nutrients.
Lean proteins: Minimise intake of saturated and trans fats found in processed and red meats, less than 70g, to reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Opt instead for lean proteins such as poultry, fish, and legumes, which offer necessary nutrients without the excess fat.
Hydration: Aim for a minimum of 1.5 litres of water daily to maintain hydration, aiding in detoxification and digestive health.
Fibre: Build your meals around fibre-rich foods, including whole-grain cereals, pasta, and legumes. These choices promote digestive health and satiety.
Fish: Incorporate at least two servings of fish per week, including one oily variety like salmon or mackerel, to benefit from heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Salt: Limit salt intake to under 6g daily. Opt for reduced-salt food products and avoid adding extra salt during cooking or at the table, to help prevent hypertension and heart disease.
Ensure to avoid these foods and drinks that irritate the bladder to improve the functioning of your organs.
2. Regular exercise Exercise is integral in men’s health, with benefits that extend to mental clarity, bone density, muscle strength, boosts in testosterone, and disease prevention. Men should aim for:
Daily activity: Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily to boost heart health and endurance.
Strength training: Incorporate strength-building workouts twice a week to improve muscle and bone strength. Never fear, as there are still ways to manage weightlifting and bladder leakages, too, for those concerned about sports and incontinence.
Flexibility and balance: Regular stretching and balance exercises improve mobility and reduce injury risk.
The induction of kegel exercises for men will assist in controlling your bladder too.
3. A balanced weight
Maintaining a healthy weight is pivotal in preventing numerous health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and mental health challenges. Conversely, being underweight poses risks such as osteoporosis, anaemia, and immune system deficiencies. Here are some health tips for men to sustain a healthy weight:
Balanced eating: Emphasise a diet rich in nutrients, with an appropriate mix of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins (see above for further details).
Caloric awareness: Opt for foods that are nutrient-dense rather than calorie-dense, avoiding excess sugar and saturated fats.
Portion control: Be mindful of meal sizes to prevent overeating.
Hydration: Drink ample water and low-calorie beverages to support metabolic functions and satiety.
Physical activity: Regular exercise helps burn calories and maintain muscle mass, contributing to a healthy weight.
4. Limit alcohol consumption
The impact of alcohol on health is profound and multifaceted. For men, regulating alcohol intake is crucial to mitigate risks like accidental injuries, hypertension, liver ailments, cardiovascular issues, and certain cancers. Beyond physical health, alcohol can adversely affect mental well-being, leading to poor judgement, risky behaviours, and psychological distress.
Men are advised to limit alcohol consumption to 14 units per week, distributed over at least three days. This has been advised by Drinkaware. This equates to about six glasses of wine or six pints of beer. While no alcohol consumption level is entirely risk-free, adhering to these guidelines can significantly decrease the likelihood of alcohol-related health issues.
You can learn more with our guide on alcohol and the impact on the bladder and bowels. Instead, try to integrate these bladder friendly drinks into your diet with greater health benefits.
5. Quit Smoking
Quitting smoking is an essential health tip for men, with immediate and long-lasting benefits. Whilst it may not be easy to do, quitting will inevitably improve your physical condition, lung function and energy levels, but also significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart conditions and high blood pressure.
Some may opt for vaping and other less harmful smoking methods, but to get the full effect, removing any form of smoking from your lifestyle completely will increase sensory skills and a healthier future.
Benefits of quitting smoking would include a better sense of taste and smell, losing the ‘smoker’s cough,’ more spikes in energy levels, and finding it easier to breathe.
6. Have A Skin Care Routine
Healthy skin is a testament to overall well-being. Establishing a skincare routine that aligns with your skin type is essential. Daily cleansing, shaving, and regular moisturising will maintain skin integrity and appearance. Sun protection and regular dermatological check-ups are crucial, especially to monitor changes and prevent skin cancer.
Men over 50 are more likely to develop skin cancer as well, so looking after your skin and moisturising, as well as using appropriate sun protection, will reduce the risk too.
For those managing incontinence, specialised incontinence skin care prevents irritation and ensures comfort, underscoring the importance of using products designed for sensitive areas.
Quality sleep is pivotal towards improving overall health in both men and women, repairing the body and fostering mental clarity in the process. Establishing a consistent sleep routine, moderating stimulants, and creating a restful environment are key to achieving a better night’s sleep. This practice not only wards off chronic health issues but also strengthens cognitive and emotional resilience, essential for a balanced and healthy life.
8. Mental Health
Regarding the concept of mental health, there has been a gradual increase in regards to the importance of it as much as physical health. Identifying stressors, developing coping strategies, and seeking support when needed will aid in mental health improvement.
Engaging in physical activities, pursuing favourable hobbies, and prioritising sleep are proactive steps towards bettering mental wellness. Acknowledging and addressing mental health needs is a strength, leading to a more fulfilling and balanced life.
9. Health Screenings and PSA Testing
Regular health screenings are indispensable for early detection and management of potential health concerns. Discussions about prostate health and PSA testing with healthcare providers are vital, particularly for those at higher risk due to genetic or lifestyle factors.
Men's health screenings are essential and typically cover the following:
Physical examination: A thorough check-up that includes an assessment of the testicles and prostate.
BMI and body fat measurement: Evaluates body mass index and body fat percentage to assess overall health.
Blood pressure monitoring: Regular checks to ensure blood pressure is within a healthy range.
Cholesterol level testing: Determines cholesterol levels to assess cardiovascular health risks.
Thyroid function test: Analyses thyroid health to detect any hormonal imbalances.
Blood and urine analysis: Urine tests can aid in scanning for various health conditions, such as whether there is blood in urine.
Nutritional and lifestyle evaluation: Assesses diet, physical activity, and lifestyle choices for overall health.
Vision screening: Examines eye health and vision accuracy.
Cardiac assessment: Includes a resting electrocardiogram (ECG) to evaluate heart health.
Lung health check: A chest X-ray to examine lung and chest health.
Having health screenings with aid in the early recognition of prostate problems that could potentially lead to prostate cancer if left untreated.
10. Maintaining Testosterone Levels
Understanding the significance of testosterone is crucial for men's well-being. This hormone influences various physical traits and functions, from muscle strength to mood regulation. Natural declines in testosterone levels start around age 30 to 40, yet certain lifestyles can exacerbate this decrease.
Factors such as obesity, sedentary habits, poor diet, excessive alcohol, and specific medical conditions like sleep apnea and diabetes can further reduce testosterone levels.
11. Understand Different Body Types
Men's bodies vary significantly, often fitting into one of three categories:
- Ectomorphs (slim and lean)
- Mesomorphs (muscular and well-built)
- Endomorphs (broader and more prone to weight gain).
Understanding your body type can guide appropriate fitness and nutritional choices, helping to set realistic health goals.
12. Healthy Fats and Minerals
Incorporating healthy fats into your diet is vital for testosterone production too. Options like avocados, olive oil, and fatty fish are excellent choices.
For those with incontinence problems, use our male incontinence products to aid in a better lifestyle.
Men's Health Tips To Make You Feel Your Best
In conclusion, there are multiple layers towards the right health tips for men, especially with numerous body types and lifestyles to consider. Of course, a balanced diet, regular exercise, mental wellness, and medical screenings are just fundamental stepping stones to regulate along the way. Furthermore, not all of these tips should be implemented at once. But by consulting your healthcare professional beforehand, can immediately set you up for a better life.FAQs
What should men do to be healthy?
Men should maintain a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, get adequate sleep, manage stress, and avoid harmful habits like smoking and excessive drinking.
What are the nutritional tips for men?
Men should focus on consuming lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. It's important to limit processed foods, saturated fats, and high-sugar items. Staying hydrated and monitoring portion sizes are also crucial for good nutrition.
How should a man take care of his body?
A man should take care of his body by adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and stress management. Regular health screenings and personal hygiene practices are also vital components of body care.
Sources
NHS. (n.d.) The Eatwell Guide. [online] Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/food-guidelines-and-food-labels/the-eatwell-guide/ [accessed 15/03/24]
Drinkaware. (n.d.) UK low risk drinking guidelines. [online] Available at: https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/facts/information-about-alcohol/alcohol-and-the-facts/low-risk-drinking-guidelines [accessed 15/03/24]
HCA Healthcare UK. (n.d.). Men's Health Screening. [online] Available at: https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/our-services/tests/mens-health-screening [accessed 15/03/24]