Many women succumb to the temptation of looking after others’ needs and health before taking care of their own.
You’re in a better place to care for those most important to your health if you make your healthcare a priority.
These health tips will help you live a healthier life, regardless of your age and overall health:
1) Stop smoking. This will significantly reduce your risk of developing heart and lung disease.
2) Sleep is essential. Regular sleep is important for fighting the signs and symptoms of ageing. It also promotes mental alertness, which helps to keep stress levels under control.
3) Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. If you must be outdoors, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher.
4) See your doctor every 12 months.
5) Make physical activity a priority in your life. Even if you have only 20 minutes a day to exercise, a lifetime habit of regular activity will benefit your heart health and help you manage your stress levels.
6) Good nutrition should be a priority. Do not eat crash diets or indulge in excess. Instead, eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and veggies.
MORE NUTRITION INFORMATION: Nutrition experts recommend that women of all ages eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fibre, and protein. Your doctor can help you find the right resources to help you create a diet that supports your long-term health.
Folic acid is also important for women in their childbearing years. This includes leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, and beans.
Women who have experienced menopause should increase their intake of calcium and Vitamin D foods (such as seafood, egg yolks, low-fat dairy products, and egg yolks). This will help prevent bone disease.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: A daily physical activity routine involving 20-30 minutes of cardio activity (such as running, swimming or hiking) is recommended to maintain heart health, weight control, stress reduction, and good overall health. Adding weight lifting or other strength training activities to your exercise program may be beneficial, especially as you age. This will help prevent the loss of bone density.
It’s never too late for exercise to begin. Even if your age is 50 or you don’t have a lot of experience with exercise, it’s still possible to ” start small” and get into a routine that improves your overall health.
Pap Smears – Women between 21 and 65 should have an annual pelvic exam and a Pap test at least once every three years. Your OB-GYN or family physician may perform these screenings.
Mammograms and Breast Exams: All women should have a breast examination every year starting at 20. The majority of healthcare providers recommend that women have an annual mammogram every year between the ages of 40-50 and every other year. It would help if you were doing a monthly self-exam of your breasts. You can ask your doctor how to do them.
Screenings for Osteoporosis: Women over 65 are more at risk of developing bone problems. This is why many doctors recommend having an annual screening starting at 65.
Colonoscopies: Ask your doctor about the recommended screenings for colorectal problems (such as colonoscopies).
