Women's health week takes place in May to remind women to make their health and wellbeing a priority, not an afterthought. Women often find themselves in caregiver roles, yet many find it challenging to care for themselves with the same devotion. Here you'll find tips to stay healthy at any age!
Schedule a Well-Woman Visit
If you have insurance, your preventive care well-woman visit will be covered! Take the opportunity to talk to your provider about your overall health and fitness level, diet, mental health and recommendations for possible lifestyle changes or health screenings you may need.
Make Time for Self-Care
Set aside time for self-care each week. That could mean meditating for 10 minutes in the morning to find peace before a busy day or booking a massage to unwind on a Sunday afternoon. Your mental and emotional wellbeing affects every aspect of your life, so do what you need to care for yourself.
Eat Fresh Fruits and Veggies
Focus on adding more fresh fruits and veggies to meals that can add important nutrients and vitamins to your diet while helping you feel full without packing on calories. Fruits and vegetables can also add to your fiber intake, which is important for digestive health.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Strive to reach or maintain a healthy weight. If you aren’t sure what a healthy weight is for your body type, talk with your primary care provider. Being overweight or underweight can increase your risk of possible health issues. Staying active and eating nutritious meals can help you achieve your optimal weight.
Work Activity Into Your Day*
No matter how busy you are, work activity into your day. If you are able, take the stairs, opt to walk when possible or join your kids running around at the playground. Be creative and get moving when the opportunity arises.
Don’t Skip the Weights*
Many women focus on cardio to maintain or lose weight, but adding strength or weight-bearing exercise is crucial for strong bones, muscles, joints and a healthy heart! Weightlifting or resistance training can also build muscle, boost your self confidence and promote a more positive body image.
Strive for More Sleep
Getting enough sleep can improve your overall physical, emotional and mental health! Observe what helps or harms your quality of sleep and see what changes you can make to get a good night’s rest.
Stop Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption
If you smoke, find support to help you quit. If you regularly drink alcoholic beverages, limit consumption. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, both nicotine and alcohol consumption can put you at increased risk of health complications including heart disease and cancer.
* Always consult your physician before beginning any exercise program.
Learn about Women's Healthcare Services Offered at Aiken Regional >
In May, We Honor Our Nursing Staff
Meet our nurse practitioners at Aiken Professional Association.
Candace Waters, FNP, graduated from the University of South Carolina and has worked in primary care settings in Aiken and Allendale counties. Waters is a certified diabetes educator and is nurse practitioner for Aiken Professional Association’s Family Medicine at 124 Bettis Academy Road, Graniteville, SC. 803-392-3724
Jessica Luke, DNP, graduated from Georgia Regents University and is board certified in adult gerontology acute care medicine. Luke is a nurse practitioner for Aiken Professional Association Urology located at 770 Medical Park Drive, Aiken, SC. 803-716-8712
Kristy Haddock, FNP, received her Master of Science in Health Nursing at the University of South Carolina. Haddock takes a holistic approach to patient care, focusing on prevention and health promotion. She is nurse practitioner at Aiken Medical, PC located at 420 Society Hill Drive, Suite 100, Aiken, SC. 803-648-7774