Men’s Health Week is a time to shine a spotlight on an often-overlooked issue: the health of the men in your life. Whether it’s a husband, father, brother, or son, many women are in a unique position to influence, encourage, and support them toward better health and longer, more vibrant lives.
Statistically, men are more likely to delay or avoid medical care, have poorer dietary habits, and experience more stress-related illnesses. They’re also more likely to downplay symptoms or tough it out in silence. That’s where the women who love them can step in—not as naggers or fixers, but as compassionate wellness allies.
1. Start with a Conversation About Preventive Care
One of the simplest but most powerful things you can do is encourage routine checkups. Many men only go to the doctor when something feels seriously wrong. But by then, conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes may have been quietly progressing for years.
Preventive screenings save lives. Encourage the men in your life to get annual physicals and age-appropriate tests like prostate exams and colon cancer screenings. Offer to help schedule appointments, go with them, or even make it a shared health goal. A small nudge from someone they trust can make a big difference.
2. Nutrition: The Unsung Hero of Men’s Health
Healthy eating isn’t just about weight; it’s a cornerstone of longevity, energy, and disease prevention. But let’s face it: many men don’t give much thought to their nutrition. They skip meals, rely on takeout, or consume excessive amounts of sugar and processed foods.
Here’s where women often hold the reins without even realizing it. Whether you're preparing meals, grocery shopping together, or just setting an example, you can guide the men in your life toward better choices.
Focus on:
- Whole, unprocessed foods: Fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
- Healthy fats: Avocados, olive oil, wild-caught fish, and pasture-raised eggs.
- Lean proteins: Grass-fed beef, poultry, tofu, lentils, and beans.
- Hydration: Encourage water throughout the day instead of sugary drinks or excess coffee.
Even small changes—like adding a green salad to dinner or swapping chips for a handful of almonds—can improve heart health, brain function, digestion, and energy levels. And if you’re making changes too, he’s more likely to follow suit. Not sure how to begin? Take the Eat Well Feel Great nutrition program and discover how nutrition can make a major difference to your family’s health. The first two lessons are free, so go ahead and try it out.
3. Make Movement a Habit (and Make It Fun)
Men are often more likely to commit to physical activity when it’s framed as something enjoyable or goal-oriented. Invite him for a walk after dinner, suggest a weekend bike ride, or take a class together like martial arts or yoga.
Exercise doesn’t just benefit the body—it improves mood, sleep, libido, and stress resilience. You don’t need to push hard; consistency beats intensity. A 30-minute walk a few times a week is a powerful habit to build together.
4. Don’t Ignore Mental and Emotional Health
While physical health gets most of the attention, emotional well-being is just as important. Men are more likely to suffer in silence when it comes to stress, anxiety, or depression.
Encourage open, judgment-free conversations about how he’s feeling. Check in regularly. Let him know that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Share information about how nutrition affects mental health. Normalize practices like breathwork or stress-reducing activities like gardening, journaling, or listening to calming music.
Modeling your own mental wellness practices is a great way to invite him into that space, too.
5. Be His Wellness Advocate, Not His Critic
Be the steady, supportive presence that celebrates progress over perfection. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but when men feel seen and supported, they’re more likely to make lasting shifts.
Celebrate small wins. Be gentle when setbacks happen. Share articles, podcasts, or healthy recipes without pressure. Even asking, “How can I support your health right now?” can open a door to deeper conversations and action.
This Men’s Health Week, support the men in your lives in their wellness journey. With love, encouragement, and a little strategy, you can help them build stronger bodies, sharper minds, and longer, healthier lives.
Author Bio
Dr Brad Kristiansen is a nutritionist and chiropractor who has helped thousands of people improve their health through personalized nutrition programs.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Innate Wellness products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. This article is general information, not medical advice — consult your healthcare provider before starting any new wellness routine, especially if you are pregnant or have epilepsy, a bleeding disorder, a pacemaker, or other electronic implants.
