Men's Health Month
Most men in our society are raised to be tough and macho and taught never to admit weakness in any form. This approach to life probably serves men well in business or in competitive sports, but it leads to big problems when it comes to health issues. A mindset of invincibility often results in men ignoring preventative health advice. They will engage in unhealthy eating, smoking, and excessive drinking because they believe nothing bad will happen. When they have a heart attack or a diagnosis of diabetes, they are shocked. June is Men's Health Month and the American Dietetic Association offers these tips for men: • Eat a moderate amount of a variety of foods. If you need to lose a few pounds, limit second helpings and choose more fruits and vegetables to round out the meal. • Choose a diet lower in saturated fat and cholesterol. Cut saturated fat intake by choosing more lean meats and low-fat or fat-free dairy products. Bake, broil and grill more often than frying. Limit the margarine, butter, gravy, salad dressing, regular cheese and ice cream. • Include more whole grains, vegetables and fruit. Men tend to be "meat and potato" fans. The average American male consumes only half of the daily recommended dietary fiber. • Shake the salt habit. Most restaurant meals and convenience products contain plenty of sodium already. Grabbing the salt shaker and adding more at the table is usually unnecessary and may lead to higher blood pressure readings. Try adding hot pepper sauce, lemon juice, herbs and salt-free seasoning mixtures to boost flavor. • Drink alcohol in moderation. A maximum of two drinks a day is recommended. One drink is defined as 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits, 12 ounces of beer, or one 5 ounce glass of wine. • Get active. Physical inactivity is a risk factor for heart disease and diabetes.
The Joker is a very popular character with boys, perhaps because laughter is part of their own "mask of masculinity." A potential negative consequence of this stereotype is the assumption that boys and men should not be serious or emotional. However, researchers have also argued that humorous roles can be used to expand definitions of masculinity.
The Jock is always willing to "compromise his own long-term health; he must fight other men when necessary; he must avoid being soft; and he must be aggressive." By demonstrating his power and strength, the jock wins the approval of other men and the adoration of women.
The Strong Silent Type focuses on "being in charge, acting decisively, containing emotion, and succeeding with women." This stereotype reinforces the assumption that men and boys should always be in control, and that talking about one’s feelings is a sign of weakness.
The Big Shot is defined by his professional status. He is the "epitome of success, embodying the characteristics and acquiring the possessions that society deems valuable." This stereotype suggests that a real man must be economically powerful and socially successful.
The Action Hero is "strong, but not necessarily silent. He is often angry. Above all, he is aggressive in the extreme and, increasingly over the past several decades, he engages in violent behavior."
The "Buffoon" commonly appears as a bungling father figure in TV ads and sitcoms. Usually well-intentioned and light-hearted, these characters range from slightly inept to completely hopeless when it comes to parenting their children or dealing with domestic (or workplace) issues.
And we think its difficult being a woman these days? :)