Man Up for Your Health: 6 Preventive Tips Every Guy Should Know

June is Men’s Health Month, a perfect time to shine a spotlight on how men can take charge of their health. Too often, guys avoid the doctor until something feels seriously wrong. But staying healthy isn’t just about reacting to problems, it’s about preventing them.

Here are six key preventive health tips that every man should follow to stay strong, feel better, and live longer.

1 – Don’t Skip Your Annual Checkup

Regular visits with your doctor can catch problems early—sometimes before you even notice symptoms. At your checkup, you can ask about important screenings like:

Blood pressure
Cholesterol levels
Diabetes
Prostate health
Colorectal cancer (starting around age 45 or earlier if there’s a family history)

Even if you feel fine, these screenings are a big deal. They can literally save your life.

“Preventive care is one of the best tools we have to keep men healthy and active throughout their lives,” says Dr. Nicholas Krueger, Family Practice Physician and Chief of Medical Staff at CCM Health. “A simple checkup can uncover issues early—when they’re most treatable.”

2 – Keep Moving

Regular exercise doesn’t mean hours at the gym. Aim for:

150 minutes of moderate exercise a week (like brisk walking or biking)
Activities that build muscle, like lifting weights or push-ups, twice a week

Exercise helps with heart health, mood, energy levels, and even sleep. Plus, it keeps your weight in check—another major win for your health.

3 – Eat Like You Mean It

Your body needs the right fuel. Try to:

Fill half your plate with fruit and vegetables
Choose whole grains over white bread or pasta
Cut back on red meat, fried foods, and added sugar
Drink plenty of water

A healthy diet lowers your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and even some cancers.

4 – Mind Your Mental Health

Mental health is just as important as physical health. If you’re feeling down, anxious, or stressed for more than a few days, don’t keep it bottled up. Talk to someone—your doctor, a therapist, or even a friend.

There’s strength in asking for help. You’re not alone, and taking care of your mind helps everything else fall into place.

5 – Kick Bad Habits

Quit smoking—it’s never too late
Cut down on alcohol—no more than 2 drinks a day
Say no to recreational drugs

These habits are linked to serious health issues, from cancer to liver disease to depression.

6 – Know Your Family History

If health problems like heart disease, cancer, or diabetes run in your family, let your doctor know. This can help you get screened earlier or more often, and it can guide your lifestyle choices.

The bottom line? Your health is your responsibility—and your most valuable asset. This Men’s Health Month, take time to focus on prevention. Schedule a checkup, start a fitness routine, talk about your mental health, and make healthy choices. You’ll feel better now and stay healthier for years to come.

Having health issues and you would like to see a provider to help you get back to living your life?
Call CCM Health in Montevideo, MN today at (320) 269-8877.