Women’s Health Week
National Women’s Health Week starts each year on Mother’s Day (May 14-20) to encourage women and girls to make their health a priority; check out the info below:
Two out of every three caregivers in the United States are women, meaning they provide daily or regular support to children, adults, or people with chronic illnesses or disabilities. Women who are caregivers have a greater risk for poor physical and mental health. Preventive care can keep disease away or detect problems early so that treatment is more effective.
Talk with Your Health Providers
Regular check-ups are important. Talk to a healthcare provider:
- To find out what screenings and exams you need and when.
- Explore the covered preventive services for women and other preventive care benefits available for women at no cost.
- If something doesn’t feel right or is concerning, make an in-person appointment or communicate with your doctor or nurse by phone or e-mail.
Enjoy a Healthy and Balanced Diet
A healthy balanced diet is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.
- Healthy eating plans are low in salt, saturated and trans fats, and added sugars and include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fat-free and low-fat milk and other dairy products, and lean meats.
- Women need folic acid daily for the healthy new cells the body makes daily.
- Excessive alcohol use has immediate effects that increase the risk of many harmful health conditions and can lead to chronic diseases. Alcohol use should be moderate, which for women is up to one drink per day.
Get Active
Physical activity helps improve your overall health.
- Physical activity is one of the most important things women can do for their health and has multiple benefits, including lowering the risk for heart disease—the leading cause of death in women.
- Adults should do at least two hours and 30 minutes each week of aerobic physical activity that requires moderate effort.
- Adults should do strengthening activities targeting all major muscle groups at least twice weekly.
Take Care of Your Body
- Take steps to prevent yourself from getting sick.
- Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate.
- Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
- Exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep.
- Avoid the use of substances such as alcohol, tobacco and drugs.
Prioritize Mental Health
- Keep your mind and body healthy by unwinding and enjoying your favorite activities. See this month’s mental health article for more.