My Three Father’s Day Recommendations

By David Grotto, RD

I know I’m a little early with this post for Father’s Day, but knowing guys like I do, especially fathers, it will take them a while to act on this advice, anyway. So dads, on behalf on your sons and daughters, I beseech thee too act on these three recommendations!

1. Go see the doctor. Dads are more likely to put off their yearly check up than moms. In fact, less than 50% of men aged 45-64 had a physical exam last year! Guys are wired differently, that’s for sure. If we don’t see the doctor, then nothing is wrong with us. Can’t have high cholesterol if you never have it checked, right? Time is ticking, guys…so should your heart.

Advice: Make an appointment with your doc today. Do this for your children.

2. Do fewer stupid things. Men are risk takers. This could be a good thing in business but a not so wise thing when your life is at stake. Men are five times more likely to drown than women. Men are 2 ½ times more likely to die in an automobile accident (though, this stat may be challenged as of late by the great “equal-opportunity-gender-equalizer” of texting while driving).

Advice: Slow down…you’ll get there when you get there. Don’t drink and drive, don’t text and drive, don’t eat and drive. Do this for your children.

3. Admit you’re not in shape. Men who are overweight or obese often underestimate their weight, according to a recent survey of 3500 people conducted by researchers from the University of Illinois. Men tend to gain weight in their gut – a very dangerous place indeed as central adiposity (belly fat) puts men at greater risk of metabolic syndrome, diabetes, heart disease, and dying earlier than they should. Look in the mirror, guys, and check where you’re wearing your pants. Do they still fit as long as you are wearing them under a belly overhang? You’re not fooling anyone.

Advice:

Put the fork down between mouthfuls. It’s okay to not finish your plate.
Move! Cheering for your favorite sports team does not count as physical activity.
Go on a bike ride or a walk with your family.
One plate per meal. Still hungry? Load up on more salad – easy on the dressing.
Seek help. Go see a registered dietitian who can help draft a plan that’s delicious and can still include man-sized, but not Andre-the-Giant-sized portions.
Figure out the roadblocks to success. Depressed? Seek help! Don’t have time? Make time.

Do this for your children!

I want a full report. Help me out guys. If you are doing the right things, tell me about it! Have a man-sized excuse? Hit me up in the comments and I’ll help you overcome it. Your move.

Photo: iStockphoto