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Every Day is Father’s Day: Canadian Men’s Health

Every Day is Father’s Day: Canadian Men’s Health

Tracey Frimpong, Registered Dietitian @thatblackrd

Father's Day is a special occasion that provides an opportunity to celebrate and honour the important role fathers play in our lives. On this occasion, and especially during Men’s Health Month in Canada, it is crucial to acknowledge men's health and well-being, as they often tend to neglect their own health.

 

The Importance of Men's Health

Men's health is an important topic because of the particular health challenges men may confront. Factors such as societal expectations, work-related stress, and lifestyle choices can impact men's wellbeing. To guarantee that men live healthy lives, it is critical to raise awareness and promote a proactive approach to address barriers which they face. We can help men live longer, happier, and more satisfying lives by treating their individual health challenges. Around Father's Day, is a good time to remind men to prioritize their health and well-being. This day honours fathers while also encouraging them to think on their roles as caregivers and providers. Adopting a healthier lifestyle not only benefits men, but it also sets a good example for their children, enabling healthier behaviours within the family.

Nutrition is critical to men's general health and well-being. A well-balanced diet rich in nutrient-dense foods is essential for maintaining good physical and mental health. Adequate nutrition promotes optimal bodily function, increases energy levels, supports the immune system, and lowers the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.

 

4 Nutritional Considerations to Optimize Men’s Health

  1. Balanced Macronutrients: Men should strive to consume a diet that has a balance between carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. This will support muscle strength, repair, and help with energy levels. There should be an emphasis on complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Items include whole grains, vegetables, pulses, and nuts and seeds.
  2. Micronutrient-Rich Foods: Men should prioritize consuming foods rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Including a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help meet the body's nutrient requirements and support overall health. In comparison to macronutrients, your body requires less micronutrients for optimal performance. Micronutrients do not supply energy, but they are necessary for processes such as digestion, hormone production, and brain function. Due to gender differences, men require additional micronutrients such as magnesium, zinc, Vitamin C, and thiamine.
  3. Limiting Unhealthy Choices: Men should try to minimize their intake of processed meals, sugary beverages, high sodium, and unhealthy fats. These choices can cause weight gain, raise the risk of chronic diseases, and have adverse effects on general health.
  4. Adequate Hydration: Drinking sufficient water throughout the day supports digestion, regulates body temperature, and helps with absorption. 

The recognition of what dads do is important, but it is also important to emphasize the great aspects of self-care. Nutrition is critical to one’s overall health. It can increase mens’ vitality and longevity by making mindful choices, eating a balanced diet, and adopting good lifestyle habits. Every father and man should take care of their health and prioritize their well-being not just on Father's Day, not just during Men's Health Month, but every day of the year.