Hey gentlemen! Have you always been putting your health in the backseat? Or do you only see a doctor when the symptoms become unbearable?

Make 2018 the year you start taking charge of your health! Here are some ways that you can start.

1. Load up on your Vitamin C

Studies have shown that men take longer to get over a virus. Testosterone weakens their immune system (as opposed to the female estrogen which actually stops the flu virus from multiplying). Get better faster by boosting your immune system with a quality vitamin C.

2. Go for regular prostate checkups

Prostate cancer is the third most common cancer for men in Singapore. It can be overlooked by patients and doctors.

There are no warning signs of early prostate cancer though it can be detected incidentally during a routine examination of the rectum.

At the same time, prostate enlargement is a common problem for men in and over their 50's, and it very likely leads to symptoms like urinary problems. Prostate health depends on a low-fat, all-rounded diet. Prostate supplements may provide an additional boost.

3. Find a doctor you can confide in

Choose a doctor that you can be vulnerable with and more likely to confide in so that you can openly discuss all aspects of your health – from your mental state to your sexual function to your overall wellness. This is especially important for an accurate diagnosis of your health. 

4. Eat to thrive

Focus on getting enough nutrients to your body instead of counting the calories.

Eat a variety of healthy food. Some nutrients that are crucial to men are protein, fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, potassium, magnesium, selenium, and Vitamin D to name a few.

If you feel that your diet is lacking certain forms of nutrients, either make a conscious decision to choose food with the nutrient or substitute it with health supplements. Introducing a multivitamin into your day may be something to consider as well.

5. Portion your meals

Belly fat is bad news, regardless of overall body weight. It’s visceral fat, which surrounds the internal organs and increases the risk of heart disease, colorectal cancer and premature death, among others.

Eat in moderation or consider eating six small meals a day instead of three big ones -- this helps prevent bouts of overeating due to hunger pangs between meals.

6. Tilt up your rearview mirror

Force yourself into an upright sitting position when you drive. It’s a small change that will make a huge difference because it does wonders for posture and back aches.

7. Get active with your partner

Do stuff together. Take up new sports like rock climbing or cycling and work at getting good at it together.

It’s great for the relationship because you’re spending quality time together, encouraging and positively reinforcing each other.

At the same time, it keeps working out fun, which means you are both more likely to keep doing it.

Find supplements for Men's Health on OneLife.sg.