Australian men in particular need to  pay attention to this with their life expectancy rate six years lower than Australian women (81 years for women versus 75 years for men)    

It’s estimated that 67% of men are overweight, but once they hit 35 years of age they are less likely to exercise than women of the same age.

Men are more likely than women to have heart disease, develop cancer, and die in road accidents.  With every healthy choice, you can help improve on these statistics.

Prostate cancer is the most common internal cancer affecting Australian men.  Don't be daunted by this, instead take precautionary measures to reduce your chances of it affecting you. Consume soy foods regularly, maintain your weight and have regular check ups with your family GP.

Most men probably want to enjoy better physical health but they just don't do enough to achieve it. Yet it's not difficult and the benefits far outweigh the effort involved.

Start by thinking about health when choosing the food you eat. Cut down on total and saturated fats and oils and make a conscious effort to eat more fruits and vegetables. Trim the fat off the red meat you eat and remove the skin from the chicken on your plate.  Enjoy fish twice a week.

Eat more breads and cereals, particularly wholegrains and choose reduced fat dairy products. Go for smaller portions and choose reduced or low-fat versions of foods you eat; you’ll be amazed at the difference when you start reading the labels.

How the food you eat is prepared is also important. Grilling or steaming food is so much better for you than frying it. Instead of planning meals around meat dishes start thinking creatively about salads and have some fun experimenting with new flavours.

Men are also more likely than women to consume too much alcohol; try having a glass of water every second drink, have 2 alcohol free days a week and you’ll be doing yourself a big favour.

Eating well is going to make you feel better and give you more energy. You’ll also probably notice some of those excess kilos starting to go away.

Men are more likely than women to die from cardiovascular disease. One of the risk factors for cardiovascular disease is smoking.  Smoking causes around 40 percent of deaths in men under 65.  Two of the best ways to reduce your chances of developing cardiac problems are to get regular exercise and stop smoking.

Now it’s time to think about exercise.  Start by taking a walk three or four times a week. Gradually add to the distance you travel and pick up the pace a little at a time. You’ll soon have a new spring in your step and feel even better.

The right food and regular exercise can make a big difference to how you look and feel.