Health Tips for Dad

This Father’s Day, ditch the same old socks and shirts gift ideas, and give your Dad something he could REALLY use. The men in your life could all use a little help with tips, ideas, and motivation to stay healthy. Here are some tips to share with them while spending time with them this Father’s Day:

1. Maintain a healthy weight. Shedding a few pounds this summer will pay dividends as it will help Dad feel better, have fewer joint pains, and reduce the risk of heart disease (the number one killer of males in the U.S.). Summer is a great time to increase activity and fresh foods are more available than ever this time of year.
2. Get moving. Whether it’s a nightly walk after dinner or hitting the gym early each morning, a few minutes of daily exercise is not only easy to incorporate, but can be lots of fun. As little as 20 minutes of exercise daily can have profound health effects over time. Consider challenging Dad to exercise with you this summer--it will make you both feel better!
3. Remember a yearly wellness exam. Visiting his primary care physician and staying up-to-date on tests and screenings is imperative for Dad’s preventative health care. If his schedule is more relaxed during the summer, now is the perfect time to schedule those necessary appointments.
4. Relax! Stress can negatively affect Dad’s health more than he realizes. Consider the gift of a massage, or just carve out some intentional family time, to give him the opportunity to unwind. Dad will appreciate the quality time spent with you more than new socks and shirts, every time.