CELEBRATING NATIONAL WOMEN’S HEALTH WEEK ALL YEAR ROUND

Dreamer in the Garden
of Aesclepius by Daniel

As National Women’s Health Week draws to an end, we encourage women to not just observe their health once a year but to do so year-round. This includes encouraging the women in our lives to do the same.

Taking the necessary steps in the right direction can prevent many unwanted diseases and health risks. According to the CDC, heart disease, cancer and stroke are among the leading causes of death in women – all which can be prevented by taking necessary preventative action. Here are a few steps to improving physical and mental well-being, according to the womenshealth.gov web site: 

• Visit a health care professional to receive regular checkups and preventive screenings.
  These types of screenings can catch the early signs and even prevent breast cancer, colon cancer, diabetes, heart disease and more.
• Get active.
  At least 30 minutes of physical activity per day can aide in the prevention of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, depression and more. Not only does physical activity improve mood and mental well-being, but it aides in keeping you fit and in-shape.
• Eat healthy.
  Eating healthy should be a way of life. Keeping your body powered with fruits, veggies, whole grains and low-fat dairy will aide in the prevention of disease and illness. And drinking at least eight to 12 glasses of water per day, depending on your body weight, sustains healthy organs, skin and mind.
• Pay attention to mental health, including getting enough sleep and managing stress.
  Mental health plays a key role in our health. Mental diseases range from gambling addictions to eating disorders and can all affect one’s overall well-being. Seeking help for ourselves and others is extremely important.
• Avoid unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking and not wearing a seatbelt or bicycle helmet.
  It’s so simple to take the necessary steps in the right direction to keep our bodies and health safe. Making the right choices on a daily basis is an important factor in women’s health.
• Protect your skin.
  Melanomas and skin cancer rates are on the rise. Wear protective clothing and unharmful sunscreen when enjoying outdoor activities.
•  Choose the right vitamins and supplements.
  Choosing organics whole foods and consuming the right vitamins and minerals can assist your body in performing at an optimal level. Read more about Dr. Obi's suggestions for a healthy lifestyle and being fit at any age.

Let’s encourage every woman we know to stay healthy and stay active! To learn more about National Women’s Health Week and more tips, visit the womenshealth.gov web site.