While all men face certain health risks, gay men can suffer from some specific ailments and health issues that need to be addressed regularly. As a man and as a responsible member of the LGBTQ community, make sure to set a good example for everyone around you by practicing the following health tips and ensuring top health for yourself:
Do regular health screenings
Many gay men are scared of stigma and homophobia that can hit anywhere you turn, healthcare included. Don’t allow homophobes to win by avoiding regular health tests. Take your health into your own hands and book your yearly exams. It’s possible to find a doctor who will put your mind to ease and allow you to be 100% open about your sexuality and lifestyle habits. Most likely, your doctor will recommend screenings for your age group and sex—usually blood pressure readings, cholesterol levels, prostate exam, and testicular and colon cancer screenings. If you have any health concerns, make sure to share them with your doctor, because the key to long-term health lies in early diagnosis and treatment.
Stay safe from STDs
Unfortunately, gay men have to live with a horrible stigma that we’re all promiscuous and full of STDs. There’s certainly nothing wrong with enjoying sex, but make sure to be responsible and not feed the stereotype. If you’ve been engaging in sexual games, make sure always to use a condom or any other way of protection from STDs. The most responsible thing you can do for your health and the health of your partners is to get tested regularly and practice good hygiene. And if you fall into a category of men who are at high risk of sexually transmitted HIV infection, you might want to talk to your doctor about Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis or PrEP.
Take good care of your smile
You only have one set of adult teeth and you want to do your best to keep them in great shape. If you want to dazzle that hot hunk you’ve been eyeing for some time, you’ll need to employ your smile, so ensure it’s impressive. Every day, brush your teeth in the morning and evening, with regular flossing after meals. If you can, try to avoid those staining Starbucks drinks and red wines when you go out. If there’s nothing you can do about your crooked smile at home, certain countries like Australia, have a very developed dental industry that can fix almost any dental issue. If you find a reliable dental lab in Australia, expect to receive the best services ranging from aligners to full implants, dentures and ceramics. Any money and time you invest in your teeth will be worth the effort because the results will boost your confidence through the roof.
Eat well and exercise
No matter if you’re in your 20s or your 50s, it’s important for all gay men to be active and practice healthy eating. Make sure to fill your plate with plenty of fiber for good digestion (especially if you’re a bottom who wants to make prep easier and faster). A well-balanced ratio of protein, carbs, fat and fiber can remove a lot of your issues with energy, digestion and weight. And being active throughout your life is also crucial. You don’t have to turn into a gym rat, but regular exercise will do wonders for your hormone levels, energy, endurance, strength and overall happiness.
Go to therapy
If you think that you don’t need therapy, you’re most likely wrong. Therapy is a universal tool that can help any human be better and healthier, regardless of their mental health state. If you have access to therapy, make sure to use your privilege. One of the most common things gay men address in therapy is their relationship with their body image. Many gay or bisexual men worry excessively about their weight and diet. If you also suffer from these issues, you can ask your therapist to help guide you through them.
To prevent being overwhelmed, tackle one tip at a time. Baby steps are always the best approach to changing your habits, and once you start ticking off the health responsibilities, you’ll come out the other side a much healthier, stable and attractive gay man.
