Want your child to be a natural-born athlete?
Dads have a big influence on the future happiness and accomplishments of their children. But we usually think that comes from their being involved in day-to-day parenting with joy, interest and interaction. Turns out there are also powerful biological influences that are passed from father to child through sperm at conception and play out for the rest of the child's life.
A study in Cell Metabolism shows that future dads who exercise regularly pass along microRNA in their sperm that gives their children intrinsic exercise adaptability, greater strength and metabolic health. The bottom line: A physically fit dad transmits endurance and athleticism genetically, not just by example.
Dad's hidden influences don't stop there. Another study, presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress, finds that if a dad smoked at age 15 or younger, his children age faster as they grow up -- putting them at risk for premature health problems. That's because the smoking causes epigenetic changes to sperm that permanently damage the quality of their baby-makers.
So, listen up, guys -- your health today matters not just for your health and happiness. Your children's future is affected by the lifestyle choices you make now. (Psst! Make sure to take a daily prenatal multivitamin -- yes, both partners -- for at least six months before conception.)
To improve your exercise habits, nutrition, stress management, sleep routine and more, sign up for the free newsletter at 4YOUngevity.com, and dive into the great info on all the newest ways to maximize your health in my book, "The Great Age Reboot."
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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