We know being a dad is hard work, and exercise and eating healthy often become less of a priority. Plus, metabolism slows down as we age, so it’s a lot easier for our bodies to become a softer, rounder shape. Now everyone comes in different shapes and sizes, but it’s important to show your family that you care about health! Instead of giving into the trend, instill healthy eating and lifestyle habits in your family and avoid the infamous “dad bod.” Here are a few tips to get you started.
Start the morning with good nutrition.
Fatherhood is an all-day job, and the best way to jump-start your metabolism and get the energy you need for the day is with a nutritious, protein-filled breakfast. If you don’t have enough time to prepare breakfast, try incorporating a high-protein, low-sugar shake like Life Shake™ to energize your day and help you retain lean muscle while you keep the weight off. While most dads aren’t getting the nutrition they need from meals alone, Life Shake has 23 essential vitamins and minerals to support overall health. You can also consider supplementing with targeted solutions like CoQHeart® and Cholesterol Reduction Complex* to power your heart and keep it strong.
Eat real food.
We’re not talking about that fast food burger or that microwaved burrito. Yes, these kinds of foods are cheap, easy to make or buy, and convenient for your day, but they’re not doing much in the nutrition department except growing a dad bod. Your diet is the best place you can start prioritizing your health. Eat a balanced meal of vegetables, complex carbs, and a lean protein. And if you still need some convenience, frozen veggies paired with a fresh cut of meat are a much better option than a gas station hot dog.
Treat yourself in moderation.
Everyone needs a cheat day now and then. Feel free to have that slice of pizza, get drinks with the guys, or eat birthday cake with your kids! But remember that moderation is key; you want to treat yourself without spoiling yourself. It’s a good idea to commit to a healthy diet for most of the week and treat yourself once or twice on the weekend.
Try meal prep.
If you’re crunched for time, planning your meals and shopping ahead of time can help you avoid those fast-food meals. Use your weekend to shop and cook lunches or dinners for the week. Not only will you have things ready to eat when you don’t have time to cook, but you’ll also have more time to spend with your family, which makes you the best dad ever!
Look for opportunities to be active.
There are easy ways to sneak some exercise into your daily routine, especially if you work in an office setting. If possible, try walking, jogging, or riding a bicycle to work, and make it a point to take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator. If none of these are options for you, try taking a 30-minute walk during your lunch hour or park farther away from the entrance to get some extra steps in. All these little habit changes can add up to help you keep the weight off.
Do some interval training.
Interval training is one of the best ways to get your weight down, because anything that gets your heart rate up for short periods of time is going to burn fat. Try doing a HIIT workout or spin class. You can even turn an aerobic exercise (running, biking, walking) into interval training by adding 30- to 60-second periods of intense speed followed by a rest period. Start interval training, and you’ll help increase your metabolism, improve your cholesterol profile, and decrease the dad bod.
We know that being a dad isn’t easy, but you can literally take some weight off the responsibility with healthy eating and lifestyle habits. Live healthier for your family, and continue being the awesome dad that you are!
| *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. |
