Lifestyle changes to protect new dads

If you have a new baby, or a baby on the way, now is a good time to take stock of your own health. Not only do you have a new baby to support and protect, but you now have a good motivation to stay in good shape to be active with a growing child. Here are six basic things to do now to improve your overall health.

1. Fasten your seatbelt. This is probably the easiest lifestyle change you can make with the greatest benefit since car accidents are the leading cause of death between the ages of 3 and 33, and the third leading cause of death for all males.
2. Know your cholesterol. Get it checked at 20, and every year after that.
3. Check your blood pressure. Get it checked along with your cholesterol.
4. Keep it up! Make sure you have good erectile function (E.D. Is the euphemism on TV). The ads make it sound like inability to get an erection is completely normal and fixed up with drugs. But it could be an early warning sign of heart disease or diabetes.
5. Limit alcohol. While some studies indicate a health benefit for moderate alcohol consumption, limit drinks to two or fewer a day. If you ever did drink and drive, now is the time to stop.
6. Check your waist. Don’t drop your belt below your belly and assume everything is okay. Keep your waistline below 40 inches.

Remember, especially if you’re a dad of a young boy, you have the most to gain by monitoring your health. Not only will you benefit with a longer life, but studies show that boys imitate their dads. You will have the biggest effect on your son’s health.