Let’s face it; men are usually not as diligent as women at seeing their doctor regularly. There’s no better time than Men’s Health Awareness Month for you to take charge of your health. Even though we think of ourselves as strong and invincible, it’s important to actively maintain your health, which includes your urological wellness.

When you think about your overall wellness, your urological health is likely not the first area that comes to mind. We often overlook our urological health until a serious ailment occurs and causes concern, pain or discomfort.

Urological health is a vital and inseparable part of your well-being. Lack of it could affect many of your major organ systems. Urological diseases can affect the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra, as well as the prostate, penis and testicles.

The good news is that staying healthy is simple. With a few exceptions, men’s urological health focuses on the things you already know.

Here are six lifestyle tips you can begin today to maintain your urological health.

Stay hydrated. Drink 6 to 8 cups of water every day. Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption as these could upset your bladder.

Maintain a balanced diet. Fill your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy proteins like lean meats, poultry, fish and beans. Heart-healthy diets can reduce your risk of several cancers including prostate cancer.

Exercise regularly. Stay active and keep moving. Be sure to get at least 20-30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily. And next time, take the stairs!

Practice good bathroom habits. It’s normal to go to the bathroom every 3 to 4 hours during the day and the goal is to keep you sleeping through the night. Take your time when on the toilet so that your bladder can empty fully to reduce your risk for a bladder infection.

Quit Smoking. Tobacco use is a major cause of bladder cancer. Choose a smoke-free lifestyle.

Visit your doctor. Schedule regular screenings, tests, and check-ups with your healthcare provider. Your doctor will assist you in maintaining a normal blood pressure, checking your cholesterol and preventative health screenings.

Remember, urological health is essential to your well-being. And your urologist is meant to be a healthcare partner who looks out for your best interests in those parts of your body. Men in their 50s should start seeing their urologist regularly to maintain their urological health.

Dr. Stephen Schiff is the Vice Chairman of Surgery and a Urologist at Day Kimball Healthcare. To learn more about urology services at Day Kimball Healthcare, visit www.daykimball.org/urology.