for eMaxHealthMen's general health is subject to risk factors such as age, family history and personal habits. While the risk factors of age and family history are beyond your control, you can take steps to change your personal habits in the interest of preventive health. The following are some specific steps that men can take to prevent disease or injury:
Stick to a healthy diet - In deciding what foods to eat, you should consider health risk factors and the presence of conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease. Generally, a diet should be low in salt and fat. It should be high in fiber with an emphasis on fruits and vegetables.
Wear your seat belt - You should wear a seat belt whenever you are in a motor vehicle. Injury and death from auto accidents are common causes of disability and death in adults.
Limit your consumption of alcohol and caffeine - Alcohol consumption should be limited to no more than two ounces of liquor or the equivalent daily.
Practice safe sex - The use of latex condoms can help prevent sexually transmitted diseases. Safe sexual practices are a must in an adult preventive health program.
Avoid tobacco - The negative health effects related to tobacco are well-known and well-publicized. Being tobacco-free is a major goal in any preventive health program.
Have regular eye and dental examinations - Regular eye exams are one of the best ways to protect your vision. Dental exams are important for the health of teeth and gums. In addition, many health conditions that affect the entire body generate warning signs that can appear in and around your mouth
Take time to exercise - Exercise is a preventive measure for almost any significant health problem. Generally, 30 to 40 minutes of a sustained exercise activity, three to five days per week is the goal for most adults. An exercise program should start slowly and gradually build up to this level. Talk to your doctor about an appropriate exercise program for you.
Wear sunscreen - Avoiding prolonged sun exposure and using sunscreen can reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Wear hearing protection for excessive noise exposure - Excessive noise exposure is the most common cause of hearing loss.
Be safety-conscious - Wear bike helmets when biking. Wear reflective clothing when running in the dark. Think about the safety aspects of all of the other activities that you enjoy.
Copyright 1995-2005 The Cleveland Clinic Foundation. All rights reserved
This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. For additional written health information, please contact the Health Information Center at the Cleveland Clinic (216) 444-3771 or toll-free (800) 223-2273 extension 43771 or visit www.clevelandclinic.org/health/. This document was last reviewed on: 9/7/2005
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