Picture Perfect Health for Father's Day
This Sunday is Father's Day, and what better time is there to offer some health advice specifically for men? Compared to women, men tend to smoke and drink more, seek medical help less often, engage in risky, dangerous behaviors, and have more stress from work. And, with a life span of about five years shorter than that of women in our country, clearly American men could pay more attention to their bodies.
There is good news. If a man, at any age, begins seeing a doctor regularly, getting screening tests, and taking preventive measures, he may greatly improve his quality of life and reduce his risk of premature death and disability.
Of course, one way for men to take better care of themselves is with a balanced diet composed of the most nutritionally rich foods. Here are some important tips to share to ensure the men in your life remain healthy:
- Pick foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products more often.
- Avoid common portion-size pitfalls: split entrees or ask for a “to-go” box at restaurants for half your food, take only one serving of foods for meals at home, and eat on smaller plates.
- Cut down on drinks. Many people don’t realize how many calories beverages can contribute to their daily intake.
- Use the Nutrition Facts label on products to make smart choices. A general rule of thumb is to pick items with 20 percent or less of the Daily Value (%DV).
- Control weight by balancing the calories taken in with calories expended. Men should aim to get moderately intense exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week.
Eating a healthful diet lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke, cancer, diabetes, and osteoporosis. This Father’s Day, give the gift of a longer life and show Dad that you really care.
- Modern Menus
Have questions regarding this article? Ask the Nutritionist.