1. Pay attention to your well-being.
Sure, you have a lot of responsibilities—but it's important to take care of your health too! Do your best to eat right, exercise, and get enough sleep. Try to set aside some time for doing things you enjoy and staying in touch with those who mean the most to you.
2. Let go of stereotypes.
Although women's rights have come a long way over the years, many women continue to face obstacles related to their gender. From stereotypes and inequality to discrimination, abuse and violence, women's issues persist today— at home, in the workplace, and in society—even in progressive areas of the world.
3. Take care of your mental and physical health.
Talk to your health care provider about stress, anxiety, and depression, and about the health effects of alcohol abuse and alcoholism—which can be more serious in women. Follow recommendations for routine health care—including regular exams and immunizations, prenatal care, and vision, hearing, and dental care.
4. Watch for health issues that are more common in women.
Women are more likely than men to experience medical conditions like urinary tract problems—UTIs, overactive bladder, incontinence—joint pain and osteoarthritis, migraine headaches, and others. Know your family history, and contact your health care provider if you develop any new symptoms or experience chronic pain.
5. Don't smoke.
According to the American Lung Association, more women are affected by smoking-related conditions than in the past, and smoking is now the largest preventable cause of death among women (and men). Quitting is the best way to improve your health and avoid exposing your family to dangerous secondhand smoke.
6. Know your risk for heart disease and stroke.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women (and men) in the United States; however, women are more likely to die following a heart attack. Women also have a higher risk of—and additional risk factors for—stroke. Talk to your health care provider about your heart health.
7. Maintain a healthy weight.
Women typically have less muscle and more fat than men, and are usually smaller. Therefore, they need fewer calories to maintain a healthy body weight and activity level. Be sure to eat a well-balanced diet, get regular exercise and physical activity, and keep your BMI within a healthy range.
8. Take care of your reproductive health.
Sexual health is an important part of overall health. Reproductive concerns include menstruation, contraception, infertility, breast health, female cancers, pregnancy and breastfeeding, menopause, etc. Talk to your health care provider about safer sex, STD prevention, and screening procedures you need to stay healthy.
9. Take steps to keep your bones healthy.
Osteoporosis is a progressive disease characterized by low bone density, bone fragility, and susceptibility to hip, spine, and wrist fractures. Did you know that eighty percent of people with osteoporosis are women? Be sure to get enough calcium, vitamin D, and weight-bearing exercise—and don’t smoke—to reduce your risk.
10. Get enough iron and folic acid.
Iron and folic acid (or folate) help promote good health and energy levels and decrease the risk of birth defects. Iron-rich foods include meat, fish, kale, spinach, beans, lentils and fortified breads and cereals. Folic acid is found in fortified foods, dietary supplements, citrus fruits, leafy greens, beans, and peas.
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