Dr. Felicia Stoler, DCN, MS, RD, FACSM gave EmpowHER readers some tips women need to know to keep the men in their lives healthy, especially during the winter.
Many men aren’t always on top of things when it comes to their health. Often, it's the women in their lives who tune in to their health problems first.
Stoler is a registered dietitian, exercise physiologist, and expert consultant in nutrition and healthful living. She is also the author of "Living Skinny in Fat Genes: The Healthy Way to Lose Weight and Feel Great," and the host of TLC's "Honey We're Killing The Kids!"
EmpowHER:
Why do women need tips on how to keep our men healthy? Can't the men do it themselves?
Dr. Felicia Stoler:
Women, by nature, are caregivers. We are accustomed to going to doctors regularly – whether it be for our kids or ourselves (and perhaps taking our parents or grandparents). For many women, taking care of the home, food, and activities falls under their purview.
So, when it comes to food ... the ladies can ensure better choices are available ... use good ingredients. We can keep the pantry AND even the medicine cabinet stocked with goodies the whole family can use.
Men seem to brush off their health concerns ... whether it’s “denial” or simply a matter of machismo. There has been the stereotype of the man who doesn’t like to ask for directions ... well, many men just don’t like to ask for help.
In lieu of waiting for your guy to ask, be ready! According to the U.S. Dept. of Labor, women make 80 percent of all health care decisions.
EmpowHER:
Are men more at risk for health-related issues in the winter?
Dr. Felicia Stoler:
We are all “at risk” all the time, but especially during the winter months, there are some things to consider.
First, holiday weight gain ... let’s face it; there is a reason why people make New Years’ Resolutions about health – specifically about weight and exercise.
Men are just as guilty for packing on some extra weight during the holidays. The danger for men is that they tend to have more body fat around their abdomen, which is considered more dangerous than fat stored in our legs and buttocks.
Small changes mean a lot ... smaller portions, eating more fruits and vegetables, drinking more water and consuming foods higher in fiber, are all secrets to weight loss success (and even good health).
Many people make the mistake of setting unrealistic and unattainable goals. Overdoing the exercise at the gym or even snow shoveling can set your man up for pains, strains and even a heart attack.
If you feel run down or sore – listen to your body ... get rest and allow your body to heal. Then ease back into physical activity.
EmpowHER:
What are things women can do to help their partners adopt a healthier lifestyle?
Dr. Felicia Stoler:
Women can lead by example ... essentially practice what they preach. This includes healthy food choices, stress management, physical activity and good sleeping habits.
They can encourage their partners to do the same ... so show them that the healthy choice IS the easy choice. Excuse-proof your relationship when it comes to a healthier lifestyle.
EmpowHER:
Can women who struggle with their own health also help their partners get healthier?
Dr. Felicia Stoler:
Some men will really take a step back after watching their mate push through their own struggles and are inspired to do the same for themselves. In fact, in some relationships, this can become a healthy competition, which is really a team effort.
EmpowHER:
What should women be looking for to make sure the men in their lives are healthy?
Dr. Felicia Stoler:
1) First, keep healthier food and beverage choices in your home. Use the weekends to experiment making new dishes ... the Internet can be a wonderful source of food inspiration and so many recipes have ratings and reviews, so you can see how other people fared making a dish.
Try to use words of encouragement NOT discouragement ... without being too bossy! Use heart-healthy products, olive oil, plain non-fat yogurt (in place of sour cream), skim milk, high fiber breads and cereals.
2) Consider stocking your medicine cabinet with supplements that are good for brain health like tocotrienols, fish oil supplements, Vitamin D supplements and even magnesium.
3) Keep sterile nasal saline solution from the drug store on hand for keeping nasal passages healthy.
4) Whether it’s a cold or the flu, make sure to let your body REST because you could be susceptible to bronchitis or pneumonia.
5) Remember to wash your hands ... and keep them away from your mouth, nose and eyes!
Sources:
Email Interview with Felicia Stoler. 17 December 2014.
DOL.gov. 1 December 2013. "Fact Sheet: General facts on women and job based health."
http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/newsroom/fshlth5.html
Reviewed December 29, 2014
by Michele Blacksberg RN
Edited by Jody Smith