Take Five for Your Health

April 29, 2012

Provided By: UnityPoint Health - Des Moines

You may think maintaining your health takes hours of preparation and dedication. The truth is that small things that take mere minutes that can shape your health in big ways.

Got a Minute to Protect Your Health?

Buckle up. One out of every five drivers will be in a car accident this year. Before starting your car, check to see that your children are buckled up or are securely placed in their car seats, and always make sure to buckle your own seatbelt.
Review food labels. Counting calories? Trying to limit your salt intake? Take the guesswork out of grocery shopping by comparing food labels to find the best choice for you and your family.
Rub in some sunscreen. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Before heading outdoors, apply a sunscreen with a sun protective factor of 30 or more.
Wash your hands. Taking a minute to wash your hands with warm soapy water can reduce your risk of being exposed to and catching influenza, the common cold and other respiratory infections. Don't have water? No worries. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer gel instead.

Time for a Check Up? Take a Checklist

Scheduling a routine medical exam for yourself and family members can keep you up to date on your health and ward off problems before they become full-blown conditions. Before heading to your physician's office, prepare a checklist to ensure your visit goes smoothly.

Ask about screenings and vaccines. Whether it's time for your son to head back to school or you've reached a milestone age, talk to your physician about what screenings are appropriate at what age.
Remember to record medications. If your physician has to prescribe medicine, he or she will need to know what other medications you're taking to ensure there isn't an interaction. Write down everything you take and how often, even if it's over-the-counter medications or herbal supplements.
Talk about your family health history. If your parents coped with diabetes or heart disease, there's a good chance you might too. Speak with your physician about what tests you should undergo to assess your current risk and lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your overall risk.

This article was provided by www.MyHealthPublisher.com and can be found here.