If you’re living with mesothelioma, then you know firsthand the huge tolls it’s taken on your health. But this June – which is National Men’s Health Month – is a time for us to all focus on what we can do to live our best lives, despite having mesothelioma.
Remember to Eat a Healthy Diet
Staying strong is important when you’re fighting mesothelioma. Eating right can help give your body the nutrition you need to recover from chemotherapy treatments and maintain your existing level of immunity.
Doctors recommend that people living with mesothelioma eat a balanced, nutritious diet that is high in protein and low in sugar. Recommended dishes and foods include chicken salads, baked beans, and bananas to provide you with the protein, vegetables, and starches your body needs right now.
Ingredient ideas to help spice up your diet and make it new include adding peppers, ginger, fresh herbs, and spices.
If You Smoke, Quit Now
If you’re a smoker, we know you likely don’t want another lecture about your habit. But smoking comes with so many health risks and can delay your body’s ability to heal itself. And we also aren’t saying you have to quit cold turkey. There are several smoking cessation programs that men have found success with, and your doctor may also be able to prescribe you prescription-strength medications to help you quit for good. Just reach out to your doctor and be open and honest with him or her about your smoking habit and desire to stop.
Get Plenty of Sleep
We all need a good night’s sleep to feel refreshed in the morning. But we know that as men get older, getting adequate sleep can become more difficult. However, research shows that men over age 65 who sleep at least six hours every night have fewer incidences of heart disease and diabetes. And if you have insomnia, long-term side effects can be unwanted medical conditions like obesity, depression, and stroke.
To sleep more easily, it’s recommended you:
- Set your home’s thermostat to your preferred temperature. Some people sleep better when it’s cooler, some sleep more easily when it’s a little warm.
- Sleep in a dark room – through motion-sensor lights can be used to help prevent you from tripping if you need to get up to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night.
- Turn off all electronic devices before you go to sleep, including your television and your phone. Don’t try to fall asleep with these devices on in the background.
- Invest in a new comfy pillow, sheet set, or even a mattress if you’re still having trouble catching some z’s.
Exercise Regularly
It’s good to be active and exercise. This is especially true when you have a mesothelioma diagnosis. Exercise helps boost your immunity and regulate your sleep schedule, which are two things your body needs. Recommended forms of exercise include daily walks or runs, aerobic exercises, or practicing yoga.
Focus on Your Mental Health to Maintain Your Emotional Wellbeing
Mesothelioma and stress go hand in hand (but we know we didn’t need to tell you that). The stress and anxiety that you feel from your diagnosis may seem overwhelming, but there are ways to soothe it. Practicing deep breathing is a great way to reduce anxious thoughts. Meditating daily is another way that can help you stay calm and focused. If you’ve tried these and they aren’t enough, or you feel your anxiety and stress is too much, tell your doctor immediately. There are medications that can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall mood.
We’re All Here to Support You
As we’re fighting our best for your mesothelioma lawsuit, we’re also on the sidelines cheering for you. We know what’s happened is unfair and undeserved, but we’re here alongside you to celebrate your efforts to live the happiest and healthiest life possible.