Just last month, many of us celebrated the wonderful men in our lives for Father’s Day, where they were showered with funky socks, sports gear and homemade craft from the kids.

While those gifts are all treasured, what Dad may really need is a quick health check-up - to make sure he’s around for many more Father’s Days to come!

The Stats

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, males are more likely to die early from disease than females. On average men live 4.2 years less than women. Whilst there is a perception of men not being interested in visiting their GP and with disease prevention in general, a small South Australian study showed that a large proportion of men did, in fact, carefully monitor their own health, relying on their GP to provide accurate information whilst being laidback and respectful.  Other evidence shows that unfamiliarity with how GP consultations work, waiting times and cost issues are barriers to men engaging with their GP.  The take-home message: don’t always dismiss men as not wanting to care for their health; find a GP that suits their personality, that they trust, and who takes the time to explain how the health system works is important. 

Diet and Exercise

A healthy diet and regular exercise is important for men’s health. Around half of all Australian men don’t meet Australian physical activity guidelines, and 97% of men don’t meet the Australian Dietary Guidelines’ recommended fruit and vegetable intake. The benefits of healthy diet and regular exercise include:

            * Lower risk of diabetes

            * Lower cholesterol

            * Reduced depression and anxiety

            * Improved testosterone as men age
            * Reduced risk of erectile dysfunction

            * Stronger bones.

The importance of sleep

A good night’s sleep can make the world of difference to both physical and mental wellbeing.

MensLine Australia gives a number of recommendations to help with good sleep:

            * Set regular wake up and sleep times

            * Exercise, particularly in the morning (keep it light if exercising at night)

            * Avoid taking naps in the day

            * Avoid caffeine, tea and alcohol after dinner.

Your Ramsay Pharmacy has a range of supplements, vitamins and products to help keep men in top shape. Visit us today to see how we can help you.