Think you're more health conscious than the men in your life? You might be surprised, discovers Karen Fittall.
Research proves women are more health aware than men. Examples? We're 38 percent more likely to investigate the ingredients in food and are significantly more conscientious about visiting our GPs for regular check-ups. But that doesn't mean that we can't learn something from the opposite sex.
From the way they sit behind the wheel to how they regard what they see in the mirror and how much — or little — they do on the way to work, here are some lessons we should learn from the men in our lives.
Lean back when you're driving
Research says: men have better posture than women when they're driving a car.
It matters because: a University of Virginia study discovered how incorrect posture in the driver's seat is one reason why women are 47 per cent more likely than men to sustain severe injuries in a car accident.
Adopt it by: using the car seat as it was intended. The researchers agree you can't change the fact that women are typically shorter than men and have to sit closer to the steering wheel. However, they advise against leaning forward. Instead make sure your back and neck stay firmly against the seat and headrest at all times.
Relax on your trip to work
Research says: men don't let their daily commute get to them.
It matters because: a UK study found that women are highly stressed
by their trips to and from work, regardless of whether they drive or catch public transport. The most 'at risk' women were those with pre-school children but most were affected to some extent.
Adopt it by: stopping your commute turning into a multi-tasking exercise. "We know that women, especially those with children, are more likely to add daily errands to their commute such as food shopping and dropping-off and picking-up children from childcare," says study author Professor Jennifer Roberts, from the University of Sheffield. "The time constraints and the reduced flexibility that comes with them make commuting stressful in a way it wouldn't otherwise."
Wear flat shoes
Research says: the plain fact is men drew the long straw by not having high heels in their wardrobes.
It matters because: in 2010 US researchers added weight to the argument that high heels aren't healthy, saying regular use significantly increases women's risk of joint degeneration and knee osteoarthritis. At the same time, a European study confirmed that women who usually wear high heels have shorter calf muscles and stiffer tendons, which makes wearing flat shoes painful.
Adopt it: by making stilettos a sometimes-only fashion statement, say the US scientists, who also suggest choosing lower heels wherever possible.
Stop living in the past
Research says: men are far less likely than women to assume things will go wrong based on a similar experience in the past that turned out badly.
It matters because: a tendency to worry about the future due to past events may be a reason why women are more at risk of anxiety, according to University of California researchers. In any one year, one in six women experience anxiety disorders compared to one in 10 men, national depression initiative beyondblue reports.
Adopt it by: putting a positive spin on past events. So says a 2011 US study that found people who view the past through rose-coloured glasses are generally happier. "We found highly extroverted people are happier because they tend to hold a positive, nostalgic view of the past and are less likely to have negative thoughts and regrets," says the study's co-author Ryan Howell. "This is good news because although it may be difficult to change your personality, you may be able to alter your view of time and boost your happiness."
For the full story, see the February issue of Good Health. Subscribe to 12 issues of GoodHealth for only $59.95 and receive an Invisible Zinc Pack, valued at $34.90.
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