Connecting Wellness in Mind, Body and Spirit through Evidence-Based Research
A Focus on Prevention
The young man will certaintly transcend into the older man, yet can still remain healthy and vital when incorporating a few simple practices. The research shows that there is a five year gap in life expectancy between the man and women. Incorporating healthy practices early in life will contribute to the benefits of a healthy later on. Read below about the "top ten" health issues affecting men today and learn what you can do to sustain health lifelong.
Get in the habit of trying to develop a better understand of how diet affects disease. Remember to think positive, instead of becoming frustrated learn how to put in place a strategy to improve your overall health and wellbeing. Research shows that only 5% of diseases are related to genetics, most likely those reading this page believe they are destined to have high blood pressure, heart disease or cancer. If your father had high blood pressure, think about his diet was he a "salt shaker", if so that is one key factor you have just identified which contributed to his high blood pressure. If your grandfather died of lung cancer, did he smoke heavily. These are some of the simple things to think about when looking at genetics and family history. Learn how to do the research and implement a plan of action. Be strong, be well. Dr. Michele J. Doughty
Top Ten Causes of Mortality in Men
 Cardiovascular HealthCardiovascular disease is the number one cause of mortality in men within the United States. About 8.8 million men currently have heart disease making it important to understand the risk factors associated with heart disease. Strengthen the heart through physical exercise at any stage of life. |  CancerCancer is the second leading cause of mortality in men in the U.S. Unfortunately, over 300,000 mortalities occur in men annually which can be prevented. Prostate, colorectal and lung cancer can be prevented through early detection and adopting health life practices. Understanding your risk early in life can improve outcomes later in life. |  Unintentional InjuriesThe third leading cause of mortality in men are unintentional injuries such as falls, and accidents. Unintentional injuries claim more lives then stroke and lung disease in men in the United States. Make sure you are aware of your surroundings and equipped for unexpected happenings. |  Chronic Lower Respiratory DiseaseRespiratory disease is the fourth leading cause of mortality in men. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) has been signaled out as the third leading cause of mortality in all Americans. Lower risk through adopting healthier practices. Quit all forms of smoking, research genetic risk and dress properly in cold weather. |
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 StrokeThe fifth leading cause of mortality in men is the stroke. Having a stroke can impair the physical and mental functions of an individual for life. Get the facts about risk factors and prevention early on. The onset of a stroke can be detected with proper education. Watch the salt shaker and the hidden sodium in foods and prescription medications. Try to eat 2300mg of sodium daily, if you are African American 1500mg is recommended. |  DiabetesDiabetes is a disorder which is linked to insulin resistance, body mass index and genetics. It is the sixth leading cause of mortality in men, affecting 12 million men within the United States. Know your risk and adopt healthy practices early on through diet and exercise. Purchase a juicer or smoothie maker and be generous to add green vegetables which can stabilize blood sugar. |  SuicidePlease think before you take life in your own hands, you are not alone. There are thousands of support groups available for those in need in your local community. Suicide is the seventh leading cause of death in men. The suicide rates are high in veterans with studies showing veterans now commit suicide at the rate of 22 deaths per day, or roughly one every hour. About half of all suicides occur in men aged 25 to 65. Seek counseling and talk about it. |  Alzheimer's diseaseAlzheimer's disease is the eight leading cause of mortality in men within the United States. Damage to the brain's neurons can lead to decline in memory and daily functions usually later in life. Genetics plays a small role, however, age and other factors contribute at a higher rate to the onset of the disease. Understanding risk factors early on can improve management of the disease. |
 Influenza and PneumoniaMake sure you wear properly clothing, because influenza and pneumonia represent the 9th leading cause of death in men in the United States. Never let a cold linger without seeking professional medical help it could save your life. |  Liver DiseaseLiver disease is the 10th leading cause of death in men in the United States. Do the research and understand you can lower risk lowering alcohol intake, improving exercise and modifying the diet. |  DisparitiesResearch shows a greater risk of diabetes, heart disease and cancer in certain racial and ethnic groups. It is important to understand that disparities stem from multiple factors such as cultures, attitudes, beliefs and norms. Find out about the disparities in your culture and make changes to prevent disease early on. |
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THREE THINGS TO CONSIDER
REDUCE SALT INTAKE IN HIDDEN FOODS
Be mindful to watch out for hidden salts in many of your favorite foods. The average daily recommended intake of sodium is 2300 milligrams or 1 teaspoon of salt per day. If you are in the African American race group, the guidelines call for limiting sodium intake to 1500 milligrams daily. Learn how to use sea salts, herbs and spices to flavor foods.
LOWER RED MEAT/ INCREASE PLANTS-BASED FOODS
Meat is a great source of protein and iron, however research shows high consumption of red meat and processed meats is linked to colorectal cancer, bowel cancer, prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease. Replace meats high in saturated fats such as, beef, lamb, pork, veal, venison and goat with poultry, fish and legumes (beans). Also increase intake of plant-based foods.
Exercise 30 minutes a day or 150 minutes per week to lower risk for heart disease, prostate cancer, lung disease and diabetes. Enjoy a wide variety of physical activities to improve muscular strength and endurance.
