How to harness dad power

Father’s Day has come and gone, but we think Dad power should get daily attention. So guys, listen up: The latest research will show you how influential your choices are in determining the health and happiness of your future children.

Our expanding knowledge of how everyday habits can turn genes on and off (for better and worse) and how those changes can be inherited by subsequent generations shines the spotlight on Dad’s lifestyle choices. Add to that recent discoveries about how sperm is affected by guys’ best and worst habits, and clearly it’s time to take a look at the hidden power of Dad!

1. A study from Harvard University found that young men who ate a typical Western diet packed with ultraprocessed foods and red/processed meats had lower sperm counts than those who consumed fish, chicken, vegetables, fruit and water.

2. A Norwegian study shows that men who were obese as teens have double the chance that their future offspring will develop asthma!

3. In addition, another lab study found that a diet lacking high-quality proteins (100% whole grains, legumes, lean animal protein like salmon) may trigger metabolic dysfunction, an altered gut biome and excess body fat in offspring.

4. Paternal smoking, whether it’s before conception or while the baby is in utero, lowers total sperm count and causes less sperm concentration in adult sons!

So what can you do? A lot!

Exercise now. Lab research shows that when males exercise before conception, their children — as adults — have better glucose regulation, decreased body weight and decreased fat mass. Upgrade your nutrition. Stop smoking. Reduce exposure to potential toxins. Get and stay involved with your child after birth.

With some effort, the results will help create a healthier family through the generations.