March was National Nutrition Month in the US and we were inundated with information about what constitutes good nutrition. The event is sponsored by the American Dietetic Association to remind us to take care of our health by eating healthfully.
We all make choices about what we eat. One of the ideas expressed throughout the month was giving focus to the importance of making informed food choices so we could develop sound eating and physical activity habits. The problem is most of us jumping on the band wagon for the latest trend or what’s chic with the celebrities, pushing aside the science which constantly shows us how good nutrition impacts our health.
So what is healthy eating?
I suppose it depends who you read or talk to. For me it’s one of the best ways to lose weight, to have energy, and to avoid feeling old because you don’t have energy and you’re down in the dumps.
The American Dietetic Association used a great slogan last month: Think "Nutrient-rich" rather than ‘good’ or ‘bad’ foods. Consider a diet that includes:
- 3 different fruits daily
- 3-5 different vegetables daily
- 3 low-fat dairy products daily
- Whole grain products (not white flour products)
- Consuming a plant based diet with small amounts of meat
- Eating fish or poultry twice a week rather than meat
- Eating a nutrient dense snack like popcorn vs. a chocolate candy bar (high calorie low nutrient snack)
- Substitute a low-fat alternative for a high fat method of cooking (chicken stock vs. oil; using olive oil instead of butter.
What is it you do to feel energetic and keep up with your kids and grandkids? I have a friend who says it's her daily one piece of chocolate that makes her feel great. That wouldn't work for me. I'm hoping one of your secrets will be just what I'm look for.
Scroll down to 'Comments' and tell us what works for you in the blank window.
Sources: The American Dietetic Association: www.eatright.org
To your successful aging.
Ruthan Brodsky
Health Writing and Communications Marketing for
Health Care Professionals
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