Trucker health is becoming a hot topic these days. Everything from sleep apnea to diabetes to high blood pressure are dogging at the heels of a large percentage of OTR truck drivers. Here are a few things that truck drivers can do to start making immediate changes to improve thier overall health. (please note: the following steps are simply suggestions and should not be considered hardened medical fact. You should always consult with your physician if you have any concerns or questions about any of the items read here)
1. Monitor your blood pressure – check your blood pressure whenever you can. If possible do it at least once a month if not more often. If the upper number is over 120 and the lower number over 80, you might want to talk to your doctor.
2. If you smoke STOP – enough said. Yes it is hard but the benefits start immediately.
3. If you drink alcohol do it in moderation – more than 2 two alcoholic drinks a day can increase your chances for stroke or other medical problems not to mention the potential for impaired driving.
4. Cut back on salt and fatty foods. Truck stops are becoming more health friendly. You can start your road to health the next time you eat by just doing small things. You don’t have to make drastic changes all at once. Start by skipping the fries or bread. If you just have to have salt, cut the amount you use in half. Have a salad for one meal instead of your regular fare. Skip the cheeseburger and get grilled chicken instead. Any one of these things will help you start on the road to a healthier you.
5. Diabetes is one of the fastest growing health problems for Americans. Uncontrolled sugar levels can eventually lead to major problems including kidney problems, skin ulcers, amputations and death. If you are diabetic, you must monitor your sugar levels. After you eat you may experience a sugar crash if you are not taking proper medications. Too much sugar in your system and the next thing you know you will be falling asleep. Not enough sugar and you will pass out. If you diabetic cut out the sweets, pasta, bread, potatos and starches. Diabetes can be controlled but it will take work.
6. Rest. Every truck driver is on a schedule and the more miles driven translates to more income earned. Lack of rest however can cause you to lose all your income if you fall asleep at the wheel and crash. Rest as much as possible and do all you can to get a good nights (or days) sleep. You will be more alert, your body will function better and you will drive safer.
These few tips working together can start to produce immediate results. You can drive and stay healthy.
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