When we talk about men’s health and fitness, we often emphasise physical health, such as the size of their muscles, chest, arms, shoulders and legs, but are we discussing the right topics about men’s health?

Studies found that up to 60% of men are less likely to see a GP unless seriously ill. It was also found that fear and vulnerability were contributing factors as to why a lot of men were unlikely to see a doctor; they hoped the condition would improve on its own.

Two Timothy 1:7 says: ‘God has not given you the spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind’, so why are men not using the power God gave them when it comes to matters of their health?

Some have allowed different societal stigmas to deceive them of God’s health plan; they have allowed an invisible pressure to compromise their health. This means they are missing out on the opportunity to fulfil their dreams and enjoy life to the fullest.

Here are 11 tips to help men live a life full of purpose:

1. Acknowledge and maintain a connection with the Father. He made you and knows what you need (Jeremiah 1:5). Ask Him for help; let pride not enter your heart (Proverbs 16:8).

2. Set your priorities and vision for your health, family and church, then formulate a plan to live out a life of purpose.

3. Get your hormones checked, balanced and optimised — especially testosterone, as it’s vital for bodily functions like bone strength, hair growth, sperm production and libido. Optimisation will help you lose weight and build muscle, and could prevent prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, increase energy and improve or overcome depression. Low testosterone levels can increase oestrogen levels and leave you with undesirable man boobs.

4. Look out for products that contain Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical found in beverages and food containers, aerosol cans, plastic bottles, shop receipts and more. It raises oestrogen and lowers testosterone.

5. Include exercise in your daily routine. We all know that moving your body is good for your physical health, but exercise can have a huge impact on your testosterone levels, mental health, heart and weight. Resistance and high intensity workouts are proven to boost testosterone levels.

6. Get a good night’s sleep — seven to nine hours for restoration of your cells.

7. Drink a lot of alkaline water to reduce acids and improve metabolism, hydration and digestion.

8. Eat well, include natural herbs, fresh fruit and vegetables in your diet, also garlic and ginger to help fight off infections.

9. Manage your stress and cortisol levels.

10. Connect with other men to help challenge and build you up spiritually, mentally and physically.The Bible says ‘iron sharpens iron’ (Proverbs 27:17).

11. Help the overall health of your cells, tissues and organs by providing it with toxin-free, intact essential fats omega-3 and omega-6 for improving energy levels, stamina and performance.