HEALTH TIPS FOR DADS

So many of the health and weight loss tips we hear are geared toward women, but this post is packed full of health tips for dads!

DON’T SKIP YOUR ANNUAL CHECKUP

Men are over 30% more likely to skip their annual checkup than women. The excuses range from being too busy, feeling fine, being uncomfortable at the doctor, and fear that something will be wrong. However, the sooner you identify a health concern the more likely that it can be managed or treated with success. Your annual checkup should include blood, stool and urine samples, cholesterol, blood pressure, prostate check, and skin screening. It should also include screenings for any condition-specific health factors. The goal is to be proactive, not reactive.

SPEND MORE TIME OUTSIDE WITH THE KIDS

Dads are busy, making it hard to find time to head to the gym but physical activity is a must. Make the most of your time by heading out with the kids to play games, sports, garden, or work in the yard. Also, plan more active family fun like hiking, cycling, swimming, or ice skating. This will give you quality unplugged time with your kids and sneak in your weekly physical fitness.

EASY TIPS FOR HEALTHY EATING

Healthy eating has never been easier. Here are a few tips to help dads skip the vending machines and fast food dining options.

• If you are a dad who loves to cook find a healthy cookbook or online website for meals that are both delicious and nutritious.
• If you love to grill, grill more lean cut and naturally marinated meat.
• Stock up on healthy single-serving snacks that you can keep at work instead of heading to the vending machine.
• Packing your lunch is healthier than hitting up a fast food restaurant so save time by packing the night before.
• Utilize Uber Eats and other delivery apps and websites to order healthy food at work and home.
• If you have weight to lose or need to manage a new or chronic health condition, it’s time to personalize your nutrition with meals designed to optimize your health.

PAY ATTENTION TO WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL GOOD

Last but certainly not least, pay attention to what makes you feel good. This might be how you feel after a good night’s sleep, how energized you feel after playing with the kids, how motivated you feel after a presentation at work, or how happy you feel after spending quality time with your nearest and dearest. Identify what makes you feel good and prioritize these things in your schedule as much as you can.

Health is all about balance. You will never get it 100% right but if you don’t increase your awareness you put yourself at greater risk for unnecessary health concerns. If it helps, consider your proactive approach to health as an example you set for your kids to follow when they become parents. Make healthy living a family affair!