Have you heard about the “dad bod?” Apparently, it’s been a popular trend and some women really like it.
Is there really an argument about what looks better - the “dad bod” or a fit bod? While the dad bod has made quite the stir, the lifestyle that creates the dad bod is not exactly the best choice for healthy living. Abdominal fat is linked to cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. And the greater amount of fat your body has, the worse it can be for your internal organs and muscles.
According to popular TV doctor, Dr. Oz, a man’s waist size should be less than half his height. That means at 6ft tall (72 inches) your waist should be less than 36 inches.
No one says guys need to have six-pack abs or look like Mr. Olympia, but if you want to make some changes in your health and appearance, we've got seven t tips to lose the dad bod for good;
1. DRINK MORE WATER
Drinking more water can do great things for our bodies. One of the many positives associated with drinking water includes trimming fat. Scientists have found that those who drink more water can burn around two percent more calories a day. Even if that doesn’t seem like a lot, that number can still mean the difference between zero pounds and five pounds of weight dropped over the course of one year.
2. EAT PROTEIN FOR BREAKFAST
Something else you can do is eat close to half of your daily calories in the form of protein for breakfast. Eating protein in the morning gives you more energy and stimulates your metabolism. What’s the number one choice for morning protein? The answer is eggs. Eggs contain choline, a B vitamin that keeps away belly fat, and they are great for increasing metabolism.
3. GET MOVING
Studies have shown that strenuous workouts are better for losing the dad bod. Interval training is a great way to increase metabolism and shed weight quickly. You can choose any intervals that work best for you. For instance, on the elliptical or treadmill, you would speed up for 30 seconds and slow down for one minute. As you improve, increase the faster pace, and decrease the rest period. Choose a weight-bearing activity such as walking, running, or jogging and pair it with a regular weight training regimen. Ideally, you should get some physical activity for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
4. FLICK THE SWITCH EARLIER
You probably guessed this was coming. The earlier you go to bed, the less likely you are to gain weight. If you don’t get the right amount of sleep, chances are you’ll have more visceral fat than someone who got more sleep with the same daily routine as you. So go to bed earlier and get more rest!
5. LIMIT SIMPLE CARBS
Simple carbs like white pasta and white bread are the stuff dad bods are the staples of dad bods. Skip the white foods and reach instead for carbs with more fiber. Good choices include beans, whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
6. CUT DOWN ON THE BEER
When you are in search of a six-pack, you should be talking abs, not beer. One beer is okay, but that should be it. It is called a beer gut for a reason. Cut down on the beer and keep the spare tire limited to the car.
7. MANAGE STRESS
It is not easy to eat healthy when you are stressed out. You are more likely to reach for junk or fast food when you are feeling overwhelmed. In addition, stress hormones can lead to belly bloat. Make time for relaxation and activities you enjoy.
You might love being a dad, but you probably don't want to look like one. By following these steps regularly, you’ll find yourself looking more fit and trim and saying goodbye to the dad bod.