Celebrate Women’s Health Month in May: Top Tips for Wellness and Wellbeing!

By Melissa Patrick
Kentucky Health News

May is Women’s Health Month, and this year, the “Our Healthy Kentucky Home” initiative is putting the spotlight on women’s health.

Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman highlighted that women encounter unique health challenges. “Understanding these specific needs is vital for promoting long-term wellness,” she stated.

Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals some concerning statistics: as of 2023, 15.6% of women reported being in fair or poor health, 42.1% are obese, 9.2% smoke, and 6.4% have high blood pressure. These figures underscore the importance of focusing on women’s health now more than ever.

To promote better health, Coleman suggested adopting a balanced diet. Women should aim to include a variety of foods from all food groups while limiting added sugars, salt, and unhealthy fats. On average, adult women need 1,600 to 2,400 calories daily, depending on their age, height, weight, and activity level. For those interested in figuring out their specific calorie needs, the Our Healthy Kentucky Home website offers useful calorie calculation tools.

Exercise is also crucial. Coleman recommended at least 30 minutes of activity three times a week. Regular exercise can lower blood pressure and cholesterol, aid in weight management, improve sleep, and reduce the risk of serious diseases like breast cancer, heart disease, and stroke.

Scheduling regular checkups is another important habit for women. Coleman shared her own experience: “What I thought was just a regular checkup turned out to be a potentially life-saving screening. Thanks to timely action from my healthcare team, I’m healthy today. Regular exams can truly change lives.” This personal anecdote reflects the value of early detection.

The Our Healthy Kentucky Home website provides links specifically related to women’s health from reputable sources like the U.S. Office on Women’s Health and the CDC. It also offers resources tailored to Kentucky residents.

This initiative will run for a year, with a new health topic explored each month. The goals are clear: every Kentuckian should aim for two servings of fruits and vegetables daily, engage in regular exercise, and maintain social connections.

This focus on women’s health is timely and vital, especially as studies show women often prioritize family care over their own well-being. Promoting a culture where women feel empowered to take charge of their health can lead to healthier families and communities.

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Kentucky Health News,Our Healthy Kentucky Home,Women’s Health Month