Did you know that March is designated as National Nutrition Month by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics? This campaign aims to equip others with the education needed to make informed food choices while promoting the development of healthy eating and physical activity habits. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is committed to sharing knowledge regarding the importance of healthy eating for all ages. An easy way to enhance healthy eating is to ensure that you are intentionally selecting foods from all of the food groups including: vegetables, fruits, grains, dairy and protein. It is important that you consult your healthcare provider and/or a registered dietitian nutritionist if you have any special dietary needs; these healthcare professionals can assist you with developing a customized eating plan individualized for you. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends the following tips to maximize the formation of healthy habits:
1. Make half your plate fruits and vegetables.
2. Make at least half your grains whole.
3. Switch to fat-free or low-fat milk, yogurt and cheese.
4. Limit sodium, saturated fat and added sugars.
5. Stay well-hydrated.
6. Enjoy your food but be mindful of portion sizes.
To learn more about healthy eating, you can visit www.eatright.org for additional helpful information. Other great resources, including education on identifying your food group targets through the MyPlate Program, can be found at the United States Department of Agriculture website at www.myplate.gov.
Please note that this information is not intended to replace the need for every person to have a one on one conversation with a qualified healthcare professional prior to making significant changes to a nutritional plan.
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