Black men take charge of your health today

If you are an African American male over age 50 reading this count yourself lucky and blessed. You have probably noticed a lot of friends and associates your age and younger are padding away. You probably are taking note that not all of them were hospitalized or in hospice. All too frequently men who seem healthy are here one day and gone the next . You don’t have to be in that number of those leaving this earth at an early age. Simple lifestyle choices can improve your chances of living longer. Studies continue to indicate that African American males have a higher mortality rate than other men so here are some things you can do to beak the odds.

Instead of having a “me too” attitude, make your mantra “not me, not today.” Even if your dad. Grandfather and other males you know died young, keep telling yourself you will best the odds. There is no magic bullet but simple things we have been hearing over the years should be put into action. Think about your children and grandchildren band determine to live long and healthy for them. If you have sons or grandsons discuss hereditary issues with them and help them start early in preventing the health problems that are unnecessary .

The first thing to do is cut back on or cut out the soul food diet. Too much fat and grease are not healthy. Eating more vegetables and fruits is in order to kept you healthy and especially if you may have been diagnosed with diabetes or heart disease. It’s important to remain hydrated and drink lots of water. I was just told about someone who did not like water and ignored the doctors orders to drink more. Now this individual is on dialysis three times a week. Keep the old adage of move it or lose it in mind. Walk, run, jog and or go to the gym, just keep it moving.

Keep your appointments with the dentist, doctor and for eye exams and always ask detailed questions. I know a man who was told he was pre diabetic but the physician did not elaborate or suggest a plan of action. This black male said it did not occur to him to seek more information and one year later he was a full blown diabetic. I know other diabetics whose blood sugar drops due to dietary changes and exercise and they have been taken off medication and insulin. They are no longer considered diabetic.

Make sure to keep informed by not just asking questions but doing your own research. Take matters into your own hands as much as possible and try hard. If you are over 50 you may have days you don’t feel like getting out of the bed. The normal riggers of aging, and side effects from medication can cause discomfort. Make sure your mattress is sturdy and your pillows are comfortable so you can get a good nights sleep. It’s possible some discomfort may be the result of your bed and not illness. Be sure your shoes fit properly and that clothing is not too tight. Taking notice of these little things will go a long way in helping you feel better.

If you cannot afford a day at the Spa. have your spouse rub your back, neck and shoulders. Soak in the bathtub with Radom salt to relieve tension and stress. Be careful not to drink too much alcohol, or take in too much salt or added sugar. Consider vitamin supplements and or drinking Ensure or Boost so that you don’t endure nutritional deficiences. Whenever you have blood work done, always make sure you get a physical copy or find out how you can access your records online. This way you will be aware of any numbers that might be high or low. All of this may sound like a lot but it’s worth it. In time it will become your norm and you will be glad. An ounce of prevention is worth the pound of cure, expecislly when it results in extra time with your loved ones. Even if you were one to party hard, and have abused your body, you still have time to undo as much of the damage as possible. So why not get started today and not be another black male statistic.