Cold Feet actor John Thomson shares his weight loss tips for parents
Weight problems are an increasing cause for concern for many parents, with obesity on the rise in many countries. In the UK alone some 25% of adults are classed as obese, with men more likely than women to suffer from serious weight problems – yet the slimming industry pays far more attention to women’s weight problems than it does to those of our male population.
High profile advertising campaigns from well known diet brands have done little to broaden their appeal to guys, with 28% of men feeling existing weight-loss programmes are too female-focussed, deterring them from joining.
This is despite 52% of men admitting they are unhappy with their body shape with the majority of chaps looking to lose between 1 and 2 stone in 2012. Interestingly, married men were more likely to be unhappy with their body shape than their single peers.
Men want options, and in such a female focused industry, those options have clearly been too few and far between. According to the report from the new male focused weight loss plan LivSmarter, guys in the UK have to this point compounded their problem by being too shy, 42% would not have the courage to ask anyone for advice if they wanted to lose weight, preferring (20%) instead to look online for information.
We all know how easy it is for those extra pounds to creep up on us especially when you’ve got treats for the kids in the house and teatime ends up with you finishing off leftovers.
So, what are the solutions? How can you ensure your partner has the time to lose that winter weight? Father and star of Cold Feet and The Fast Show, John Thomson gives fellow fathers his top tips.
Info on LivSmarter:
LivSmarter is a brand new weight loss plan that has been created for men by men. They have a team of experts who will put together a no-nonsense and discreet programmes that can help men get the results they want.
The research for LivSmarter was carried out online by Opinion Matters between 18/11/2011 and 29/11/2011amongst a panel resulting in 1019 men. All research conducted adheres to the MRS Codes of Conduct (2010) in the UK and ICC/ESOMAR World Research Guidelines. Opinion Matters is registered with the Information Commissioner's Office and is fully compliant with the Data Protection Act (1998).
ICC/ESOMAR World Research Guidelines. Opinion Matters is registered with the Information Commissioner's Office and is fully compliant with the Data Protection Act (1998).
Financial guide for new parents
Having a baby is a huge lifestyle change. As a new parent, you'll want to provide your new child with everything they need, and that requires a new approach to your finances too. However, budgeting for the new addition to your family needn't be stressful - following a few simple guidelines can make those important changes to your budget much easier to make.
Three Quarters Of Couples Regularly Sleep In Separate Rooms
With summer on the way more couples are venturing outside to enjoy the weather together, but when they return home their lives are not always so sunny. Three quarters of couples regularly spend the night in separate bedrooms because one or both of them snores.
A survey in April this year of 1616 repondents commissioned by British Snoring & Sleep Apnoea Association found that snoring is causing damage to relationships across the UK; 75% of UK couples are spending nights in separate rooms, causing embarrassment and distance between partners. 61% of them even think their sleeping arrangements are socially unacceptable, so wouldn’t talk about them openly.
Whilst a small proportion of couples were happy to sleep in separate rooms more than 80% said that they would sleep together in the marital bed if their snoring issues were resolved.
A staggering 16% of those surveyed had been sleeping separately for more than 10 years. If you or your partner is one of the UK’s 30 million affected by snoring, we have good news because snoring is treatable. This week is National Stop Snoring Week, raising awareness of snoring and the treatments available. This year’s theme focuses on sleeping apart and whether it’s a good thing for couples.
Watch this video with Dr Rob Hicks talking about how to diagnose what kind of snorer you are and the different treatments available.
~ New research reveals men piled on more than a stone between 1986 and 2000 ~
Research funded by the British Heart Foundation (BHF), published today, shows that the average man was a belt busting 7.7kg heavier in the year 2000 than he was in 1986 – that’s more than a stone in weight.
The research shows that this Jim Royle generation of men ate more calories and did less exercise than the average man in 1986.
Scientists from Oxford University’s BHF Health Promotion Research Group ran adetailed project to analyse changes in food consumption data and body weight over the 15-year time period. They found that the average man in 2000 ate more food than the average 1986 man – enough to make him 4.7kg heavier than his forebear, in theory.
The actual observed increase in average male weight of 7.7kg was much more than expected from the extra food available to men in 2000. The researchers concluded that a reduction in physical activity was behind the increased weight, as well as the extra food.
Bigger men are at higher risk of heart disease. 25 per cent of men in England were classed as obese in 2008 (1), the most recent data available, compared with only around 7 per cent in 1986/7 (2).
Oxford’s Dr. Peter Scarborough, who led the research, said:
“There could be a number of reasons for the reduction in exercise. One partial explanation could be that men spend more of their working lives sitting at desks now – manual careers are less common than they used to be.
“We looked at how much food was available over time, accounting for food that’s wasted or thrown away. It’s clear people are eating more, and today we’re seeing a continued increase in the amount of food available.”
Dr. Mike Knapton, Associate Medical Director at the British Heart Foundation, said:
“This research suggests a ticking time bomb for male health, and underlines the importance of both regular exercise and a balanced diet in keeping your weight down and your heart healthy. The number of obese men is not going down.” (3)
“Obesity is a major risk factor for diabetes, heart disease and stroke and contributes to premature death and poor quality of life.”
The research was published in the British Journal of Nutrition.
Being Dad gives real-life pregnancy and birthing advice that men can relate to, and will want to watch
“Darling ... I’m pregnant.” However you choose to share the news, those three little words have rocked millions of men to the core, turning their lives upside down, and changing their title instantly to “dad”. However, fathers- to-be now have nothing to fear with the release of the ground-breaking and often humorous DVD – Being Dad!
Pregnancy is split into three distinct stages, each very diferent. They are known as the first, second and third trimester and have unique physical changes and emotional stages during each phase.
The First Trimester
This is the first stage of pregnancy, the first 12 weeks. These are often the most critical for the new mother, as there is a heightened chance of miscarriage. New mothers can feel very anxious or inadequate - even feeling frightened and what lies ahead. These are all very normal feelings! Other women may feel very happy and relieved if they have been trying to conceive for a time. Once the pregnancy has been confirmed the new mum should seek medical help and support with baby questions and answers. Your doctor or health professional will be able to offer advice and reassurance and also speak to you to establish whether any risks such as hereditary issues should be explored. They will also talk to you about the `do`s and don`ts` of this part of the pregnancy - obvious ones include not smoking, not drinking, cutting out soft cheeses, raw eggs and other higher risk items. You may find that you experience morning sickness in this phase - it`s unpleasant, but will pass. Speak to your doctor if it is becoming problematic - there are also natural remedies you can try such as ginger. Be careful not to use products such as essential oils or chemical hair colourants without seeking advice first though - they are generally not advised for use by pregnant women. Speak to your doctor about supplements to take for your baby - folic acid is the classic one and a broad spectrum vitamin and mineral may be advised if you are deficient in any key nutrients.
Second Trimester
This is often described as being the most enjoyable stage, as women have become used to the feeling of being pregnant and their bodies are used to the changes associated with it - so fatigue and other symptoms such as morning sickness should stop. After the first 12 weeks, women generally make their pregnancy public - and they start to show too! It`s usually the time to start buying maternity clothes and it`s a good time to take a holiday before it becomes too uncomfortable or risky to travel. Keep taking any supplements that your health professional has recommended and keep your stress levels low. It`s important to relax and to stay healthy by exercising gently and eating a healthy diet.
Third Trimester
This third stage is the period building up to your baby`s birth! It`s normal to experience mixed emotions at this stage - worry at being a good mother or fear of the birth are very common. It`s a great time to confide in other mothers or trusted friends at this stage - and your midwife too will be a great sense of health. Make sure you are attending ante-natal classes. Gentle yoga, walking and aqua-aerobics are also great relaxants and beneficial for your health. You`ll have a due date now, but bear in mind it may change - first pregnancies in particular are often late. It can be deflating waiting for the big date - go first to see the hospital and know where you`re going. You may also have options for a water birth or other natural birth methods - speak to your doctor about options available to you. Some mothers choose to have home births with a midwife present, or drug-free labours, but don`t feel under pressure. You`ll probably be in nesting mode by this stage too - getting the house and nursery clean. This will focus your mind on the exciting journey to come!
Useful Web site links for Fathers:
Babyfumps.comthe site that's for moms and dads written by moms and dads
CaringMeals.com provides online tools to coordinate meals for your friends and family after a birth, illness, or any challenging circumstance. Mothers and their support groups love to use this site to bring each other meals during the first few weeks after the birth of a new baby. It is free and very easy to use.
we provide yoga in Pregnancy, yoga for children, Family yoga. yoga for the elderly. My husband Alan also teaches and we both have lots of men in our classes, so something for the dads also. we have regular Hatha classes and beginners classes and classes for those who are experienced to develop their practice.we also provide 1-2-1 lessons at home and in the two studios. we are Qualified and insured to teach. we have an active child protection policy. we are a small family business offering a personalised service to the community.
fathers-to-be Providing information, education and forums for parents and professionals. Learning to ride the waves of pregnancy, birth and early fatherhood.
NHS Direct.National Health service advice freely available online for all your health concerns.
Child Care DirectoryChild Care First is a comprehensive directory of childcare providers featuring nursery schools, nurseries and crèches, play groups & pre-school, after school care, childminders and many more... Our goal is to help parents make informed decisions about the types of child care available in their area.
Fathers Matter. A guide to contact on seperation and divorce.Perhaps you are a father who is struggling to maintain/achieve contact with your child or someone connected to a father who is in that situation?
FQ Magazine: Dad Magazine for new dads and single dads.
A guide for 1st time Dads. First Time Dads is the essential guide to being a dad - written by real dads for the busy dad-to-be / brand new dad.....
Brand New Dad is an online community and resource center for New and Expectant Fathers, just like you! Register free - and hit the forums, get exclusive special offers, and setup a personal wishlist.
BBC Parenting, Help for Dads. If you're about to become a dad, then this section is just for you! Men who are dads have written these articles to explain why being a father for the first time needn't be daunting, but a time to look forward to and enjoy.
Welcome to Fathers Direct, the national information centre on fatherhood. We're here to help you harness the full potential of fatherhood with news, training information, policy updates, research summaries and guides for supporting fathers and their families.
Welcome to DadCafe - a site for the father-to-be or new father to have the virtual equivalent of a drink & a chat.
BBCMens' health advice. Take care of yourself, Information and advice on the most common health issues affecting men today, including testicular cancer, hair loss, stress and more...
Go Eco Store provide a wide range of eco products for your eco home that we have evaluated, selecting only those that give real value for money, when compared with similar items available in the high street. They include energy savers, recycled glasses, eco gifts, organic & natural cleaning products, eco baby products, LED light bulbs, recycled products and all are eco friendly products that will reduce the impact on the environment....
DadAtHome.co.uk Stay-at-home dads are not the rare breed they once were. According to the government's Office for National Statistics, there were 189,000 of them in the United Kingdom by the start of 2008. Housewives still outnumber househusbands by almost 11 to 1 in the UK, but the gap is shrinking as more women become the principal or sole earner for their families. DadAtHome provides a wealth of information and advice for fathers bringing up children. It looks at the financial implications and how to plan a budget, apply for Child Benefit and Child Tax Credit, and set up a Child Trust Fund. There is practical advice on how best to child-proof the home, change nappies and bath babies. The site investigates ways to cope with babies who cry constantly and gives guidance on what to do if a child has trouble sleeping or is not eating properly. There is also a section devoted to behavioural problems, such as biting and hitting, temper tantrums and sibling rivalry. Just as importantly, DadAtHome examines ways a dad can find part-time work, keep in touch with his existing friends and find new ones. There is advice on how to maintain a loving relationship with his partner and ensure the working mum has plenty of time with her children.
Click For Nursery Essentials
Top Tips For Stay At Home Dads By Paul I Smith I have been a stay at home dad for over four years looking after my two young children and I have learnt a number of things during that time. What follows is my advice and top tips for surviving and thriving as a modern stay at home dad. 1.) Consistency. Children need routine and consistency. You have to be consistent in the way you behave, the way you discipline and the way you do things day-to-day. If children don’t know what is happening or what to expect they will get very confused and upset. This will lead to bad behaviour, irritable tempers and very frustrated children. By having a regular routine and definite rules your children will understand what is going on and will know what is expected of them. Of course the routine is not set in stone and doesn’t need to be exact to the minute, but you do need a general schedule for each day and to keep certain things like meal times, bath times and bedtimes at roughly the same time every day. 2.) Get Out. Being stuck in the house with children all day every day is enough to make you go stir-crazy, so try to get out of the house as much as you can. Kids love getting outside and there are loads of places you can take them to such as parks, play centres, shops, libraries, museums, swimming pools, toddler groups, children’s gyms, farms and zoos. The benefits of getting out are great, it means some exercise for you and the children, lots of stimulation, learning new things, having new experiences and meeting and interacting with people. Also children will learn how to behave in the outside world and will watch how others behave. The other big advantage of going out is that there is a lot less mess in the house to clear up when you get back. 3.) Socialize. As well as getting out of the house it is also important to meet and socialize with other people as well. Children like to play with other kids and they also learn a lot about how to behave within a group, how to share, how to make friends and how to look after themselves. It is also good for you to get some adult company and to talk to people who are having the same experiences and problems. Although it can be quite daunting to go into a predominantly female environment, such as a parents and tots group, you may find yourself pleasantly surprised. Attitudes are changing and many groups are very welcoming to dads. If you just be yourself and show that you are dedicated and can take care of your children then you will probably soon find yourself accepted by the majority of the mums. At the end of the day you are all just parents who are trying to do the right thing and raise your children to the best of your abilities.
4.) Get A Hobby. Okay it doesn’t have to be a hobby but it is very important for you to have your own interests that don’t relate to your children. This means that you can still retain some sense of identity, rather than just being ‘dad’ all the time, and it gives you something else to focus on. A common problem of being with young children all the time is the lack of adult stimulation and challenges, which can result in ‘mushy brain syndrome’. By having your own interests you will keep your mind active, retain your identity, and it also means that you will have something else to talk about with friends other than your children. Furthermore it is good for your children to see that you have your own life and interests and that you are not just their daddy but a person in your own rights too.
5.) Enjoy Your Time. Being a stay at home dad is tough, tiring, demanding work. It is also very rewarding and fulfilling but often those feelings can be overwhelmed by the long days and nights of constant caring and seeing to your children’s needs. So it is important to try and have some fun and appreciate the time that you spend with your kids. They grow up very fast and you don’t want to regret not making the most of the time you had with them. Things are changing and more and more of us men are taking on the role of full-time dad so it is vital that advice and information is available for us. I hope that you found this advice useful and that all you other stay at home dads out there are enjoying being with your children.
Author: Paul I Smith is a stay at home dad and creator of the website http://www.stayathomedads.co.uk which provides information, advice and a place for all dads to share their thoughts and to see what other home dads are saying.
Preparing For The Birth Of Your Child
Labour and birth is a personal experience for everyone, No two experiences seem to be alike. As is the same for every pregnancy, every time it is a different experience. Make your birthing experience personal by choosing the options that suit you, and make a personalised birth plan together. There are different options available to make labour as comfortable and worry free as possible for both parents, and your Midwife should be able to advise you which ones may suit you and your circumstances....Read more...
Articles on starting a family - Expert articles on starting a family, adopting, being pregnant and raising young children.
