It’s no secret that men are often reluctant to care for themselves. For some, it can feel like a sign of weakness or lack of masculinity. This is unfortunate, as taking care of oneself should be seen as an important part of being a healthy and well-rounded individual. After all, who couldn’t use an extra boost in energy, dental hygiene, and overall health?
Men don’t take care of themselves as well as women do. According to a recent poll, 60 percent of male respondents never get health check-ups and would only visit a doctor if something was seriously wrong. This reluctance to take care of oneself can often lead to more significant problems.
That’s why men need to learn how to care for themselves mentally and physically. Here are six things men should do to take care of themselves:
Manage your screen time – get enough sleep!
With the advent of technology, it’s become increasingly easy to spend hours in front of a screen without even realizing it. Whether working on a laptop, scrolling through your phone, or binge-watching your favorite show, too much screen time can take a toll on your health. This often leads to poor sleep habits, as the blue light emitted from screens can interfere with your body’s natural sleep cycle.
It’s necessary to manage your screen time and ensure you get enough sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults should sleep for seven to nine hours every night. If you find it difficult to get enough shut-eye, you can do a few things to help improve your sleep habits. For example, try avoiding screens for at least an hour before bed and create a relaxing bedtime routine that includes winding down for 30 minutes before hitting the hay.
Stop poor oral hygiene – visit your dentist now!
Another important aspect of taking care of oneself is oral hygiene. Unfortunately, poor oral hygiene is a common problem among men. In fact, according to the American Dental Association, men are less likely than women to visit the dentist regularly. Furthermore, our oral health is linked to our mental well-being in a significant way.
One of the expected outcomes of poor oral health is tooth loss. More than 3 million individuals in the United States have chosen dental implants as a solution for tooth loss. Tooth loss can greatly affect our mental state, leading to feelings of insecurity and low self-esteem. If you’re struggling with tooth loss, it’s important to consult your dentist to get the best dental implants that are right for you.
Tooth implants will help protect and prevent the natural structure of your teeth and provide stability to effectively secure and retain dentures. And not only for aesthetic features, it will also give you comfort and ease in chewing your foods. If you’re due for a dental check-up, schedule an appointment with your dentist soon.
On most days – get alcohol-free!
While moderate alcohol consumption has been linked to some health benefits, such as a reduced risk of heart disease, too much booze can have the opposite effect. Drinking too much alcohol can lead to many health problems, such as liver disease, cancer, and high blood pressure. In addition, excessive drinking can also impact our mental health, as it can lead to anxiety and depression.
If you drink alcohol, it’s valuable to do so in moderation. For men, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism considers two daily drinks to be moderate drinking. But setting some goals is crucial if you’re trying to reduce your drinking. For example, you may want to try abstaining from alcohol for a certain number of days each week or month. Or you may want to limit yourself to only drinking on special occasions.
Get physical – move, move, move!
Exercise is essential for both our physical and mental health. Unfortunately, many men are reluctant to get moving. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only about half of all Americans comply with the federal physical activity requirements. This lack of exercise can lead to several health problems, such as obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
Getting moving and making physical activity a part of your daily routine is vital. According to the CDC, adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of high-intensity aerobics each week. But if you’re just starting out, don’t feel you need to tackle these goals simultaneously. Start slow and gradually increase your activity level over time.
Look after your skin – stay hydrated!
Skin is the largest organ in our body, and it’s essential to take care of it. Unfortunately, many men neglect their skincare routine. This can often lead to skin problems, such as acne, eczema, and dry skin. Furthermore, poor skin care can also accelerate the aging process.
Keeping your skin hydrated is one of the most important things you can do to preserve it. Drinking a lot of water will help your skin stay healthy and vibrant. In addition, you should also use a moisturizer daily to help lock in moisture. If you have sensitive skin, be sure to use a moisturizer that is specifically designed for sensitive skin.
To sum it up
There are several things men should do to take care of themselves. Although it may seem like a lot of work, taking care of yourself is vital for your physical and mental health. Following these simple tips can improve your overall health and well-being.
