Movember, founded in 2003, began as a movement to raise awareness for men's health issues, particularly prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health. Participants grow moustaches in November to spark conversations and fundraise for related charities.
From a lifestyle medicine approach, Movember is an excellent opportunity to highlight the six pillars of health for supporting overall well-being:
Nutrition: A plant-forward diet rich in whole, minimally processed foods—such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes—promotes longevity and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. Focus on foods like tomatoes and cruciferous vegetables for prostate health, omega-3-rich options for heart and brain support, and fibre-rich choices for optimal digestion and metabolic balance.
Physical Activity: Regular exercise improves cardiovascular health, enhances mood, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly, incorporating resistance training for muscle health, which is especially important as we age.
Sleep: Quality sleep is critical for hormone regulation, immune function, and mental health. Prioritize 7–9 hours of restful sleep each night by maintaining a consistent bedtime, creating a relaxing evening routine, and minimizing screen time before bed.
Stress Management: Chronic stress can contribute to inflammation and the development of chronic diseases. Techniques like mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and spending time in nature can help lower stress levels. Movember can also be a time to connect with others and share challenges, promoting emotional resilience.
Avoidance of Risky Substances: Limiting alcohol and avoiding tobacco and recreational drugs are essential steps for reducing cancer risk, supporting liver health, and maintaining mental clarity. Moderate alcohol consumption, if any, is key—aim for no more than two drinks per day for men.
Social Connection: Strong relationships and a sense of community are vital for mental and emotional well-being. Movember encourages men to bond over shared goals, such as growing moustaches or participating in fundraising events, fostering a sense of purpose and camaraderie.
Integrating these six pillars can empower men (and the rest of us!) to take proactive steps toward better health during Movember and beyond.
I’m always eager to hear from you! Feel free to share your thoughts, questions, or suggestions for topics you’d like to see in upcoming newsletters
Be well.
Looking for a simple yet flavourful side dish? This savoury roasted cauliflower recipe is packed with gut-friendly fibre, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and antioxidants that support your overall health. Coated in a blend of spices and roasted to golden perfection, it’s a versatile addition to any meal.
Savoury Roasted Cauliflower
Delicious and nutritious, this dish makes eating well effortless and satisfying.
James Clear provides a practical guide to building good habits and breaking bad ones through small, actionable changes. Grounded in psychology and real-world examples, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to create lasting positive transformations in their life.
In my journey to continuously expand my knowledge and provide the best support to my clients, I recently completed the Lifestyle Medicine & Food as Medicine Essentials course through the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. This program focuses on the core principles of evidence-based lifestyle interventions, including nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and stress management, as tools for preventing and managing chronic disease.
As a holistic nutritionist, I value the connection between nutrition and overall well-being. This course offered an excellent complement to my practice, reinforcing the importance of addressing the root causes of health concerns through sustainable lifestyle changes. I'm excited to integrate this knowledge into my approach, helping clients achieve lasting improvements in their quality of life.
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