Healthy habits are not as much of a focus for most men. According to a Mayo Clinic study, guys are generally more confident than women about their health. This perception may be because, on average, men live five years longer than women.

But even though guys may feel pretty good about their health, there are still some things they can do to improve their odds of living healthier lives. Here are a few healthy lifestyle habits every man should make a part of his daily routine.

Get regular checkups and screenings.

It’s essential to see your doctor for regular checkups, even if you feel fine. Many health conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, often have no symptoms. Regular checkups allow your doctor to catch these conditions early when they’re easier to treat.

Your doctor will likely check your blood pressure, weight, and cholesterol levels during your checkup. You might also need preventive screenings for certain conditions, such as colon or testicular cancer. These screenings can help ensure you’re in good health.

While it might sound like a pain to schedule regular doctor’s appointments, it’s worth it. This simple gesture can keep you in the loop about your health and even save your life. So, don’t skip out on those checkups.

Exercise regularly.

A sedentary lifestyle is one of the significant risk factors for health problems, such as heart disease and stroke. Exercise is key to maintaining a healthy weight, reducing your risk of chronic diseases, and improving your overall health.

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that adults practice moderate-intensity or vigorous aerobic activity each week. You can also add two or more days of strength training to help improve your muscle mass and bone density.

Don’t worry if you’re not used to exercising regularly. You can start slow by adding a few 10-minute walks throughout your day. Then, gradually increase the length and intensity of your workouts as you become more comfortable. By starting any new exercise routine, you can be more active, improve your health, and reduce your risk of chronic diseases.

Eat a healthy diet.

What you eat plays a significant role in your overall health. A healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of chronic diseases, and promote good health.

Unlike fad diets that often promise quick results, a healthy diet is a long-term approach to eating. It involves gradually adding or eliminating certain foods from your diet and paying attention to how your body responds. A healthy diet includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, lean protein sources, and healthy fats. It’s also important to limit your intake of processed foods.

If you’re not used to eating a healthy diet, start by making small changes. For example, swap your regular soda for water or unsweetened tea. Or, add a side of vegetables to your lunch instead of fries. Over time, you can make more significant changes to your diet as you become more comfortable.

Maintain your oral health.

The mouth is the gateway to the body, so taking care of your oral health is essential. Good oral hygiene habits can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

You can maintain oral health by brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. Skipping sugary drinks, foods, and tobacco products can also help keep your mouth healthy.

It’s also important to schedule visits from a reliable dental clinic. This way, you can get regular cleanings and checkups to ensure your mouth is in good shape. With enough care, you can avoid common oral health problems and keep your mouth healthy.

Don’t neglect your mental health.

Mental health is just as important as physical health. In fact, mental health disorders are one of the leading causes of disability for men. These conditions can impact the quality of life and even lead to physical health problems.

You can improve your mental health by practicing self-care. That includes several things, such as spending time outdoors, socializing regularly, maintaining a clean environment, and getting enough sleep. You can also try relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga.

If you’re struggling with a mental health disorder, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. There’s no shame in admitting that you need help. Mental health disorders are treatable; the sooner you get help, the better.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for every man. By taking a proactive approach to your health, you’re in a better position to improve your overall health. With the above tips, you can make small changes in your life that can significantly impact your health. Remember, your health is in your hands. Make the decision today to live a healthier lifestyle.