Wednesday, May 14, 2014

This Week is National Women's Health Week!

Women's Health Week is May 11th-17th. It is a time to reflect on the advances that have been made in women's health, while focusing on the many areas that still need attention. It can also serve as a reminder for all women to check your health. Are you up to date on all of your primary care visits? Is there a concern that you've been meaning to get checked out? Is there a bad habit that you would like to quit? Don't wait! Now is the time to take charge of your health! If you are worried about the cost of a doctors visit, the ACA has made yearly check up's for women more affordable and on many health plans, completely free.

This week serves as a great reminder to stay healthy, but don't forget, it is important for women and the people around them to be concerned for their health everyday! 

Resources: 
Women's Health.gov - Women's week infographic

My Family Health Portrait - Keep track of your family history and 
share at your yearly doctors visits.

Monday, May 12, 2014

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!

With the weather finally starting to get nicer, it is the perfect time to celebrate National Physical Fitness and Sports month! It is very easy to get into routines that do not incorporate enough physical activity, and get stuck in a physically unfit state. Some only acknowledge the importance of physical activity when it comes to weight, but there is a lot more to it. In people of all ages, regular physical activity is good for your heart and can lower the risk of heart disease. In addition, it lowers the risk of type two diabetes and certain types of cancer. In elderly adults, exercise keeps the body strong and lowers the risk of falls while improving cognitive function. In children, it is important develop strong muscles and get a healthy start early in life!

Just because you don't have a lot of time to delicate to a workout routine, do not be discouraged. A little can go a long way and is always better than nothing! Find easy ways to take small periods out the of day to exercise and incorporate more physical activity into everyday events. For example:

  • Park your car further from a store even if there closer spots.  
  • Replace some chairs with exercise balls for a fun twist that encourages movement. 
  • Ride a bike to places close to your home instead of driving. 
  • Make kids put down the electronics and go out to play! 
Make this May the month you incorporate more to your exercise regimen, or try something new. If you have the time, consider adding a longer routine to your schedule at least a few times a week. Not only will you have fun, but your body will thank you!

Resources: