Dear Maurice,
My husband and I have been married for the last 8 years. I am 31 years old and my husband is a stubborn 38 years old. We have 2 girls. Though we have our ups and downs I consider myself lucky to have such a loving husband who provides unconditionally for his family.
Maurice asks,
So what seems to be the issue?
She replies,
My husbands eating habits are very unhealthy. We have had intense verbal exchanges over this matter for the last 3 years. About 3 years ago, I took it upon myself to research on the best diets for my husband at his age. Over the years I have read many articles regarding bad diets and their health risks. My husband insists on eating meat everyday despite the health risks that he knows of. I think his red meat intake is high and I have done my best to provide a balanced diet but he chooses to eat what he wants after I serve him.
Maurice replies,
If you have consistently voiced your concerns over the years about his health and he has chosen to ignore your plight then I believe its going to be a tall order to make him accept a new diet.
She replies,
Our roar over this matter has escalated to the point that my husband is now choosing to eat out to avoid my cooking. I know that he eats at his mother’s frequently and complains to her about my menu regime at home. But I am doing this in good faith why can’t he understand that I am concerned about his future. My daughters and I are truly worried about him.
Maurice asks,
So as to substantiate your adopted health regime has your husband suffered from any food related ailments either in the past or recently?
She replies,
Not that I know of, however what I do know is that several members of his family have suffered from high blood pressure, that information I received from his mother so my concerns are not based on paranoia. As his wife I only have his best interests at heart.
Maurice replies,
I am not a food expert and I do believe your concerns are justified as his wife however what I advocate is for you to convince your husband to go for a medical checkup, where they will be able to determine his cholesterol levels and other tests that will reflect on his current health status. While under going the check up your husband will receive all the relevant health advice he needs. They may also recommend a diet plan that suits his taste buds.
When adults get used to a certain way of life, set ways, it’s difficult to change their habits even if it might be crucial to their healthy living. Avoid chasing your husband from your home with your diets and seek advice from a specialist who can give your husband food options that will keep him coming home. That said I do applaud you for persisting to improve and maintain health within your home.
Your persistence in feeding him what you think is best for him is driving him away. He is a grown man who is responsible for his own health and well being. I have not seen an indication that you are a doctor or a nutritionist and men are generally stubborn and unwilling to change. Let him be and let him eat what he wants. Do not sweat the small stuff. There is more to life than force feeding a grown up man.