You At Your Best

by KaRen RiCe nWa DemoCRat-Gazette Men and women have different health problems and needs. It's a good thing to keep in mind as you research your latest health ailment online. A lot of information about health doesn't take into account the differences between men and women. Here are some facts you may not know about women's health and wellness: 1. 35.9% of women over the age of 18 in Arkansas are physically inactive, doing no physical activity or exercise other than their regular job. Nationwide, the percentage is 28.1%. 2. More than 39% of women in Arkansas are obese, and the state now ranks 3rd highest in the nation in obesity. 3. Almost two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer's are women. 4. The leading causes of death for women in the U.S. include heart disease, cancer, and chronic lower respiratory disease. Women are more likely to die following a first heart attack than men. And heart attack symptoms can be different in women than men. 5. 1 in every 8 women will develop breast cancer. 6. 20 million women suffer from eating disorders. 7. Women are less likely to experience symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases than men. This means diseases can go unnoticed and STDs can be passed down from a pregnant mother to a baby, and may result in birth defects, or even death. 8. Multiple sclerosis is two to three times more common in women than in men. 9. Women are twice as likely to experience depression as men. There are also mental health problems unique to women, such as postpartum depression. 10. Three out of four people who suffer a migraine headache are women. What you can do While some factors are beyond our control, there are many things women can do to improve their health. Unfortunately, women tend to put the needs of others before their own, and this includes neglecting their own health. Instead, "put on your oxygen mask first" and make it, and yourself, a priority. Healthy lifestyles When it comes to daily exercise and eating habits, remember that what you do today can affect your health in the future. A healthy lifestyle may help lower your risk of different types of cancer and other health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis. And there are many other benefits as well: increased energy, physical stamina, healthy skin and even a better outlook on life. "The things we put into our bodies do impact our long-term health, and they do impact what we look and feel like 10 years, 20 years, 30 years down the road," says Barbara Levy, M.D., vice president for health policy with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. In general • Be physically active (get regular exercise, at least 20 minutes a day). • Achieve and maintain a healthy weight. • Eat at least 2 ½ cups of fruits and vegetables every day. • Choose 100 percent whole grain foods (such as 100 percent whole grain breads and cereals, brown rice, millet and quinoa). • Limit red meat and processed meat. Choose chicken, fish or beans more often. • Limit "bad" fats (saturated and trans fats). These are found in foods such as red meat, fatty deli meats, poultry skin, full fat dairy products, fried foods, margarine, donuts and microwave popcorn. • Eat "good" fats (polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats). These are found in foods such as olive and canola oil, nuts and natural nut butters, avocados and olives. • Limit alcohol consumption. • Stop smoking. • Wear your seat belt. • Get plenty of sleep • Use sunscreen. Don't forget about mental health Attending to your emotional health is also important. Career, marriage, family, caring for aging parents and raising children can come with a lot of stress for women. Following the healthy lifestyle tips above can help with emotional balance, but women shouldn't hesitate to reach out for support from mental health professionals to help deal with stress and major changes. Women's HealtH SATURdAY, SEpTEmBER 28, 2019 | wOmEn'S HEAlTH - OcTOBER nwAdg.cOm/YOUATYOURBEST | YOU AT YOUR BEST | 5 A F A m i l y - C e n t e r e d A p p r o A C h t o m e m o r y C A r e Magnolia Place is a completely unique community, dedicated to enriching the lives of those living with memory loss. We are committed to being the leader in providing quality personal services for our residents, while honoring the experience of aging. 2000 S. Hampton place • RogeRS, aR • 479.636.0799 • magnoliaplacealz.com

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