Healthy, Fit Fathers: A Guide to Staying Happy and Well

We know that dads can sometimes feel left out, and around here, we want everyone to feel equal. Here is our advice for dads to help you become the fittest, happiest, healthiest dad around.

      Men and Physical Health
In their younger days, many men stayed fit and healthy by playing sports. However, as they get older, the opportunities to partake in a game of football or basketball become scarce. Everyday life and family responsibilities tend to get in the way, as do injuries and a decreasing level of stamina for playing very physical games. Many men will fall victim to the cursed middle-aged spread – often well before middle age.

  Tips to Stay Physically Fit: 
-   Consistency is Key:   If you are a younger father, you can help prevent middle-age spread by continuing to find time in your calendar each week to play sports or exercise alone or in the gym.
-   Family Involvement:   If you feel guilty about spending more time away from your family, encourage your kids to play a sport with you. If a child sees you enjoying your physical exercise, they will be more likely to keep up the healthy habit as they get older too.
-   Variety in Workouts:   Mix up your routines to include strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises. This can help prevent injuries and keep workouts enjoyable.

      Men and Mental Health
Men often misunderstand their mental health needs. It sounds like a cliché, but a feeling that he must maintain a strong macho exterior often prevents men from owning up to their stress, anxiety, depression, or unhappiness.

  Breaking the Stigma: 
-   Open Communication:   Talking about your feelings is not un-masculine and it will not make a man effeminate. In order to be the best possible father, you need to be open and honest with yourself and seek help if needed.
-   Recognize Symptoms:   Many men don’t even realize that the symptoms they are feeling are mental health issues. Common signs include changes in sleep patterns, irritability, lack of energy, and disinterest in activities.
-   Seek Professional Help:   Therapy or counseling can provide valuable support. Many workplaces offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that can help.

      Men and Diet
Compared to many women, men seem to have a voracious, almost insatiable appetite. As the average man is larger than the average woman and requires more calories daily, it’s no surprise that sometimes men seem to eat everything around them. The aforementioned middle-aged spread and the beer belly are big concerns for many men as they age.

  Healthy Eating Habits: 
-   Balanced Diet:   Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Incorporate healthy fats like those found in nuts, seeds, and fish.
-   Portion Control:   Be mindful of portion sizes. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help manage hunger and metabolism.
-   Healthy Alternatives:   Substitute "manly" foods like red meat and chips with healthier options like grilled chicken and baked sweet potato fries.
-   Family Influence:   Kids look up to their daddies and like to copy what the main man in their life does. If your children see you eating a healthy diet, it will become normal for them, and they will be more willing to try healthier foods.

      Additional Tips
-   Regular Check-ups:   Encourage regular medical check-ups to catch potential health issues early. Preventive care is crucial.
-   Stay Hydrated:   Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and maintain energy levels.
-   Sleep Well:   Ensure you get enough sleep. Lack of sleep can negatively affect both physical and mental health.

      Conclusion
We’ll allow you to take a day off, but if you are a dad who needs to shape up a bit, consider this to be the stepping stone on your way to becoming a fit, healthy, and happy dad for your children. Remember, a healthy dad is a happy dad, and your well-being sets a positive example for your family.

      References and Further Reading
-   American Heart Association:   [Healthy for Good](https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-for-good)
-   Men’s Health Network:   [Men's Health Library](http://www.menshealthnetwork.org/library/)
-   National Institute of Mental Health:   [Men and Mental Health](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/men-and-mental-health/index.shtml)

For more information please check out www.wellbeyondlooks.com