We all know health is important, but oftentimes we don’t make our health a priority. There are certain conditions that women are more prone to than men. Some of the biggest health concerns for women include breast cancer, autoimmune diseases, depression, osteoporosis, and heart disease. Check out these self-care and prevention tips to help you make your health a priority!

Heart Disease

Unhealthy eating, excessive alcohol intake, smoking, and lack of exercise greatly increase the risk of heart disease.

• It is recommended that you get in a minimum of half an hour of moderate-intensity cardio activity every day, such as swift walking or running.
• Poor eating habits don’t only affect your weight. Eating unhealthily is also bad for your arteries and blood pressure. Some super heart-healthy foods include black beans, salmon, walnuts, tofu, sweet potatoes, oranges, and oatmeal.
• Keep your alcohol intake to one glass per day.

Breast Cancer

This is one of the most common types of cancer found in women. The risk factors are similar to those of heart disease, obesity, smoking, and not enough exercise. In order to reduce your risk of breast cancer, it is important to get regular cancer screenings, quit smoking, eat well, and exercise regularly.

• Getting checked as frequently as recommended. It can help your doctor find out if you have breast cancer during the early stages when it is far more treatable.
• Mammograms, which are breast x-rays, are the most reliable way to determine if you have cancer.
• The American Cancer Society suggests that women between the ages of 40 and 54 should get screened yearly, while women 55 and older should get mammograms every one or two years.

Autoimmune Diseases

Our immune systems are vital for our bodies to effectively fight off illnesses. A few autoimmune diseases that are common in females include type 1 diabetes, Graves’ disease, hemolytic anemia, and psoriasis.

• The cause or causes of these conditions are unknown.
• Physical therapy and a healthy diet can help alleviate some of the symptoms of autoimmune diseases.
• Stress can cause symptoms to act up, so try formulating habits that relieve anxiety, such as going for walks, listening to music, or meditating.

Depression

Depression is more common in females than in males, due to unique hormonal and biological factors. It causes abnormal appetites, suicidal thoughts, trouble sleeping, or sleeping too much, the ability to cope with stress, and even physical aches and pains.

• Depression can be treated with therapy, and/or medication.
• It is common for women to experience depression while transitioning into menopause and after giving birth.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes the bones to weaken and become more fragile. Some of the symptoms are hunching shoulders, curved backs, back pain, and poor posture. This disease primarily affects older women but can be prevented if the correct measures are taken at a young age.

• Get plenty of Vitamin D and calcium daily.
• Be active!
• Avoid smoking, second-hand smoke, and heavy drinking
• Talk to your doctor to find out if you require medication to help you build bone mass.

The risk of many conditions that are common in women may be reduced with a proper diet, exercise, limited alcohol intake, and by not smoking. Now that you’re aware of the possibilities and how to stop them, take action. Healthy women are empowered women!