3 ways to make the average dad healthier for Father’s Day

Let’s face it, not every dad is a fitness freak, so coming up with healthy Father’s Day ideas might be a bit of a stretch for the average guy. Thankfully health doesn’t have to come at the cost of a gym membership or a new piece of exercise equipment; there are some simple ways to make dad healthier without too much fuss.

SEE ALSO: Why Father’s Day for single dads is different

3 ways to make the average dad healthier for Father’s Day

• Introduce dad to low nicotine cigarettes: Is your dad a smoker? If he is, chances are he was introduced to one of those high-nicotine brands as a kid. Getting dad to quit on Father’s Day may be too daunting of a task–especially if he actually enjoys the habit. For dads who will never put down their cigarettes, make a healthy choice for them–buy them low nicotine alternatives. Many times you can even stay within the same brand. According to research by the FDA, people who are given low-nicotine cigarettes eventually decrease the number they smoke altogether.

• Pick a different drink: Dad might like his alcohol on his special day, but if he’s a heavy drinker he isn’t doing his body any favors. Take control of the alcohol for Father’s Day by inviting dad over to your house or to a public area. If alcohol is provided, this gives you control over what kind and how much. If you’re giving alcohol as a gift, this is another opportunity to introduce dad to something of a lower proof.

• Cook dad a healthy steak: If your dad a meat and potatoes kind of guy? There’s nothing wrong with that diet–as long as it’s done in moderation. For Father’s Day there’s no reason dad can’t have his favorite foods, just make sure you cook them in the healthiest way possible. Invite dad over for dinner or bring it to him. Cook lean meat and include plenty of vegetables for sides. Need to serve potatoes? Choose sweet as opposed to salt.

SEE ALSO: Gourmet burgers for Father’s Day

The bottom line? Dad’s health is important to the entire family, but it’s not always easy–or possible–for you to make drastic changes to his health. If your dad is set in his ways do what you can to make small changes. Not only will he appreciate the gesture, he probably won’t notice what you’re up to right away!