The dedication to defend and safeguard your country is extraordinary when working in the armed forces. However, the challenges and sacrifices made throughout service can affect your physical, mental, and emotional health. Prioritizing your health and fitness is critical for enjoying a more outstanding quality of life and maintaining the resilience and strength that characterize service members.
According to the National Health Statistics Report published by the CDC, veterans have a higher chance of developing chronic diseases like cardiovascular conditions, obesity, diabetes, and lung diseases than civilians. The study also revealed that veterans face more mental health challenges, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety after quitting service, significantly influencing their overall well-being.
It signifies the greater importance of healthcare for veterans. Transitioning from military to civilian life is not easy for veterans. However, they can manage the crucial transition phase during the early stages by following some practical guidelines. Today, we will discuss some tips for veterans to stay fit and healthy.
Consult a Medical Practitioner
Undergoing a medical exam after quitting services is a logical first step. A practitioner who specializes in veteran healthcare can provide personalized care and attention. However, being honest about your military history and the conditions under which you worked is essential. Suppose you were exposed to asbestos during service. Mentioning this to your practitioner is imperative, as they may conduct tests and check symptoms of mesothelioma cancer – a rare condition linked to asbestos exposure. Although it may take years to surface, paying attention to symptoms and other signs can help with an early diagnosis, letting you get the treatment as soon as possible.
Your healthcare provider can conduct thorough screenings, tests, and evaluations to identify and address your health concerns. Regular consultations and checkups will enable timely detection, leading to proper care and treatment.
By engaging in active communication and adhering to recommendations, you can proactively manage your overall health and well-being, leading to a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Engage in Self-Care
Taking the time to prioritize self-care can significantly boost veterans’ mental and physical health. Self-care means adopting a healthy lifestyle and abstaining from unhealthy habits such as smoking and drinking.
It involves eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. As per World Health Organization (WHO), adults must engage in 150 to 300 minutes of moderate physical activity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity workouts throughout the week. Regular physical activity helps mitigate the risk of noncommunicable diseases such as heart conditions, diabetes, and lung diseases.
It is best to combine cardio exercises with weight-lifting. However, older adults above 65 must emphasize strength training and functional balance from moderate to greater intensity three or more days a week to enhance stamina and minimize the risk of injuries.
Moreover, engaging in mental relaxation exercises can help reduce stress and anxiety. You can do yoga, meditate, read a book, or indulge in activities you love. Spending time with loved ones will help in emotional bonding and developing connections with others, which promotes a sense of belonging and provides emotional support.
Stay Updated on Vaccines
The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) recommends veterans receive certain vaccinations, including influenza, Pneumococcal, hepatitis, mumps, singles, and Covid-19, among others, to prevent chronic and deadly diseases. Veterans can experience weakened muscles and immune systems without these vaccines, leading to more severe consequences for older adults.
Consult your healthcare professional to determine the vaccinations you need based on your potential exposure, medical history, and age. If you work in healthcare and have travel plans, staying current on vaccines such as hepatitis A or meningitis could help.
It is imperative to stay informed about the updated vaccination schedules the healthcare institutions and authorities provide. It will help you build a stronger community while maintaining your health with appropriate vaccines.
Address Injuries as Early as Possible
Veterans must treat injuries and get proper medical assistance as soon as possible to maintain their health and fitness. On the other hand, neglecting injuries can further elevate the problem and deteriorate your health.
While working in physically demanding circumstances and doing intense physical activities during military service might have resulted in musculoskeletal ailments or trauma. Therefore, listen to your body and seek medical assistance if you feel pain, discomfort, or other symptoms as soon as possible.
Early treatment can save you from further injury and help you rapidly heal from a sprained joint, muscular strain, or more severe injury. Please consult a healthcare expert, such as a primary care physician or a specialist, who can evaluate your injuries, diagnose the root cause, and provide suitable treatment.
Addressing injuries as soon as possible also helps to mitigate the development of chronic illnesses or long-term health problems. Taking proactive steps may improve your physical capabilities and maintain your fitness level over time.
Furthermore, sticking to the specified treatment plan and following adequate rehabilitation procedures are critical for optimal recovery. Physical therapy, medicines, or other therapies customized to your injury can be helpful.
Eat a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet plays a crucial role in remaining fit and healthy. Nourishing your body with essential nutrients supports immune function and helps prevent chronic diseases. Moreover, there is a direct correlation between a healthy diet and mental health. Eating nutrition-rich foods and remaining consistent with your diet can improve cognitive functions, thinking capabilities, and memory retention and regulates breathing and heartbeat.
Your diet must include at least five portions of fruits and vegetables daily, protein and fiber in breakfast, healthy snacks, and limited caffeine consumption. Too much consumption of caffeinated drinks leads to dehydration with suppressed thirst levels. At the same time, increase your water intake to at least eight glasses a day.
Moreover, replace unhealthy and saturated fats with healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids and fish oil. At the same time, eating balanced meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner is equally essential. Practice portion control and count calories while incorporating nutrition-rich foods in your diet to maintain a balanced and healthy weight.
Conclusion
Staying fit and healthy is imperative for veterans since transitioning to civilian life is sometimes challenging. It is crucial to consult a medical practitioner for proper diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible.
Practice self-care, as it helps in maintaining your health and overall well-being. Hence, indulge in activities that can alleviate your happiness levels, and boost your mental health. Moreover, get the required vaccinations and address injuries as soon as possible. Lastly, eat a healthy and balanced diet to remain fit and healthy, both physically and mentally.
