MEN’s health
“For me, living is centered around Christ, and dying is gain.”
Philippians 1:21
June marks National Men's Health Month, an opportunity for men to prioritize their physical well-being through healthy eating, exercise, and self-improvement. We want to encourage all the men in our community to take control of your health and be proactive in making it a top priority. Statistically, men are more prone to delay routine health appointments and screenings, but early detection can significantly alter the course and stop preventable diseases and health conditions.
Men, you are leaders and important members of our families and communities. When you take care of your health, you are better able to fulfill the purposes God has for your life! This month, take the opportunity to make at least one change toward a healthier you.
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you?”
1 Corinthians 6:19
If you're wondering, "How can I take charge of my health?" here are some steps you can follow:
Regularly visit a doctor, even if you feel healthy. Some diseases and health conditions may not exhibit symptoms initially, so it's important to have regular checkups. Additionally, seeing a doctor will provide you with an opportunity to learn more about your health.
Adopt healthy eating habits and engage in regular physical activity. The recommended minimum is at least 150 minutes of exercise per week, at your own pace.
If you consume alcohol, do so in moderation. Quit smoking, and consider participating in cessation programs available.
Familiarize yourself with your family's health history.
Undergo screening tests to identify potential health problems before symptoms arise.
Ensure you are up to date on your vaccines.
Developing Healthy Habits
Keep these tips in mind to take control of your health:
Remember, it's never too late to adopt healthier habits. A consistent routine of healthy eating and regular physical activity can help manage your blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol levels, and weight.
By maintaining these indicators within a healthy range, you can reduce your risk of serious health problems like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Implementing Small Changes
Incorporate small changes into your daily routine, as they can lead to significant results, such as reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes or heart disease. Here are some examples:
Instead of watching TV, go for a walk.
Opt for a green salad over fries.
Replace sugary drinks with water.
Cost and Insurance
You might be wondering about the financial aspect. Under the Affordable Care Act, insurance plans are required to cover numerous preventive services. Depending on your insurance plan, you may have access to screenings and vaccines at no cost. Consult your insurance company for further information. Medicare also covers certain health services without charge. If you don't have insurance, there are still options for accessing free or low-cost health services. Find a health center near you to learn more.
Additional resources include:
Free preventive care is covered by the Affordable Care Act (external link to health.gov)
How the Affordable Care Act protects you (external link to health.gov)
Understanding your health insurance and how to use it [PDF - 698 KB] (external link to health.gov)
SOURCES
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services OASH - Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
National Institute on Aging: https://www.niams.nih.gov -My health finder-(health.gov)
Bible (King James Version)
Prepared by: Adriene Tillman, RN, FCN
If you or your family members are experiencing some life challenges, we as the Health Ministry have several community resources at our fingertips. Let us know how we can help!
JOIN THE HEALTH MINISTRY TEAM!
Do you have a passion to encourage others to serve God holistically through our minds, bodies, and souls? We invite both medical professionals and non-medical people to join this special team!
