In Africa, we say “Health is wealth.” But many men don’t look after their health until problems come. We hustle hard, take care of family, chase money, but we forget our own bodies. Brother, it’s time to change. Let me speak to you like a brother from the village to the city. These 10 tips will help you stay strong, live long, and enjoy life well.
1. Eat Like Our Grandfathers Used To Eat.
Back in the day, our old men lived long because of natural food. They ate what came from the soil, not from factories. These days, many African men love fast food, oily chips, soft drinks, and processed meat. But those things bring sugar problems, blood pressure, and big stomachs.
Try this instead:
- Eat nsima, fufu, or sadza with vegetables and beans.
- Enjoy boiled or grilled meat, not fried all the time.
- Use local vegetables like cassava leaves, pumpkin leaves, okra, and moringa.
- Reduce white sugar and salt. Too much of it is killing many men slowly.
- Drink water, not always Coca-Cola or beer.
Small changes bring big health.
2. Move Your Body (Exercise Like You Work on the Farm)
Many African men now sit at desks or in minibuses all day. No movement. No sweating. This makes your body lazy, your heart weak, and your belly fat. Our fathers were walking long distances, farming, herding goats—they were always moving.
You don’t need a gym. Just move:
- Walk or cycle instead of driving short distances.
- Dig in your garden or sweep your yard often.
- Dance to your favorite music for 15 minutes every day.
- Join a local football team or play with kids.
- Do 20 push-ups, 20 squats, and 20 jumps every morning.
Exercise is free. But sickness is expensive.
3. Drink More Water, Not Always Beer
Too many African men think beer is a way to relax. But brother, alcohol every week is killing your liver slowly. It also brings arguments at home, dangerous driving, and broken pockets. Water is your best drink.
Try this:
- Drink at least 6 to 8 cups of clean water every day.
- Drink water before meals to help digestion.
- When you’re thirsty, choose water, not Fanta or beer.
Your body needs water more than alcohol. Save that beer for rare celebration.
4. Rest Your Body (Sleep Is Not Laziness)
In the village, when the sun goes down, people rest. But now, in towns and cities, African men sleep late watching football or gambling on their phones. You wake early but sleep less than 6 hours—no wonder you feel tired every day.
Good sleep helps:
- Your brain to work better.
- Your heart to stay strong.
- Your body to heal and fight sickness.
Sleep at least 7 hours every night. Turn off your phone early. Your body is not a machine.
5. Go For Check-Ups (Don’t Wait Till You Collapse)
We African men fear the hospital. We say, “Ah, I’m fine.” But you never know what’s going on inside your body. By the time you feel pain, the sickness may be too strong.
Go to clinic or hospital at least once a year for:
- Blood pressure check
- Diabetes test
- HIV test
- Prostate check (if you are over 40)
- Weight check
Prevention is cheaper than treatment. Don’t be shy to know your health status.
6. Talk to Someone (Don’t Keep Pain in Your Heart).
A strong man is not the one who hides pain. Many African men suffer inside—they lose jobs, their marriages have problems, they stress about money. But instead of talking, they keep quiet or drink beer.
Mental health is real. Depression is real. Suicide is happening in our towns.
Find someone to talk to:
- A brother or friend you trust
- A church elder or imam
- A counselor or doctor
- Even your wife
Opening your mouth can save your life.
7. Protect Yourself From Disease (Use Protection When Needed).
Some men think using a condom makes them less manly. But brother, having many women without protection is a dangerous game. HIV, STIs, even unplanned children can change your whole life.
Be wise:
- If you are not married, use condoms always.
- Get tested with your partner.
- Avoid risky behavior when drinking.
A real man protects his future.
8. Work Hard But Also Relax (Don’t Die Chasing Money).
Yes, we must hustle. Yes, we must provide. But working every day with no rest brings stress, ulcers, and heart attacks. Your children want you alive, not rich and dead.
Balance is important:
- Take one day a week to rest and enjoy.
- Go fishing, walk in the bush, or sit quietly under a tree.
- Visit your village to relax your mind.
- Say no sometimes. Don’t overwork your body.
Even God rested on the 7th day. Why not you?
9. Avoid Too Many Pills and Traditional Mixtures.
Some African men take pills to be strong in the bedroom. Others drink unknown traditional roots or buy “man power” from the street. Be careful, brother. Many of these things damage your liver, kidney, and heart.
If you have problems:
- Talk to a real doctor, not just a market seller.
- Eat better and exercise—it helps performance.
- Reduce stress and drink water.
Good health starts with natural living, not fake chemicals.
10. Stay Close to God and Be Positive.
Lastly, don’t forget your spirit. A peaceful man is a healthy man. Pray often. Say thank you every morning. Forgive people. Laugh with your children. Help someone in need.
A clean heart helps your health too:
- Less stress
- Better sleep
- More joy
And remember, no matter how tough life gets, you are not alone. God is watching. Stay strong.
Final Word: Be a Man Who Lives Long.
Brother, health is not just about lifting heavy things or making money. It’s about what you eat, how you sleep, how you treat your body, and how you think.
Start small:
- Drink more water.
- Eat more vegetables.
- Move your body daily.
- Rest well and check your health often.
Africa needs strong fathers, uncles, brothers, and leaders. Don’t wait for sickness to change. Let your health be your pride. Let your example help others.
You are the lion. Live like a wise lion.
You may also want to check out How Do I Make My Life More Organized?
