While we recently celebrated Father’s Day there are so many strong black men leading their families by being the example. They are not only going to work, raising their children, and supporting their spouse but they are being intentional about their health as well. The stereotype is that most black men don’t go to the doctor regularly and you must drag them to the hospital when something is wrong.
That may be true in some cases, but the men I know in my life take care of their health. According to the CDC, black men live 7.1 years less than other racial groups. At this alarming rate, I believe more men are starting to take control of their health and lead their families down the path to a healthier life.
Here are few fathers who lead by example and want to live their best life, a healthy life!
Curtis Williams– 46-year-old husband and father of 3 children and 1 grandchild who works out on a regular. Curtis runs outside about 2 miles in the hot Florida heat a couple times a week. He states while he is running it not only makes him feel good, but it gives him tons of energy.
He eats a healthy diet one that includes fruit and vegetables and drinks lots of water throughout the day. Curtis also limits his consumption of beef and haven’t eaten pork in over 20 years. He sets the
example for his family because he wants his entire family to be healthy.
Elliot Vandyke– 46-year-old single parent of 2 children works out regularly while working as the head coach for the Jacksonville Sheriff’s PALS Track Team. Elliot not only works out with the kids on the track team, but he plays sports regularly to stay fit. He believes this will help him stay healthy and free of disease.
Barry Sewell– 44-year old Husband and father of 2 states that he leads a healthy lifestyle by going to the gym at least 3 times a week, lift weights along with running and boxing. Barry also says he likes to ride his bike with his wife and kids.
He told me he likes to take time for himself as well by doing things he loves, which includes deejaying around Chicagoland and creating music which helps him unwind and detox.
These 3 fathers are examples of men leading their families toward healthier lives. I want to share with 3 more ways men can live healthier lives and decrease their risk disease.
Have a relationship with your doctor
Men do you have a
primary care physician? Having a physician that you can communicate with is important to maintaining good health. It is vital to make sure you are getting your annual exams including prostate exams, blood pressure screenings, blood work, and cancer screenings. Early detection is key and being proactive about your health is what keeps you living in optimal health.
Decrease the stress in your life
While we all have stress in our life at some point, it’s up to you to control the stress. Stress can be a ticking time bomb to poor health. Stress can increase your blood pressure, cause headaches, cause stomach issues and even increase depression. If you are under a serious amount of stress don’t wait until it affects your physical health, do something about it immediately. This may include, doing things you enjoy, working out, getting enough rest, and talking to someone if you need too.
Listen to your body
Your body is a well-designed machine and it will let you know when something is not right. If you are having symptoms of an illness, make sure to see a doctor. Don’t ignore symptoms! For example, if you notice a change in your energy level to the point that you can barely get through your day this may be a sign of diabetes, cancer, or even heart disease. You can’t go wrong by getting checked out.
Men overall make sure to take care of your mind, body, and spirit so you will be better able to take care of your family. Men make the choice of good health, long life, healthier families.
Priscilla Q. Williams, RN: Author, Speaker, Certified Life Coach, Global Nurse Educator www.priscillaqwilliams.com
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