March is National Nutrition Month

The 2009 Theme is "Eat Right"

National Nutrition Month is a nutrition education and information campaign sponsored annually by the American Dietetic Association. The campaign stresses the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and activity habits. 

With healthful habits, you may reduce your risk of many chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and certain cancers. And you might just increase your chances for a longer life. 

Smart Choices

The best way to give your body the balanced nutrition it needs is by eating a variety of nutrient packed foods every day. Just be sure to stay within you daily calorie needs. A healthy eating plan is one that:

• Emphasizes fruit, vegetables, whole grains and fat-free or low-fat milk products.
  
  
• Includes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts.
  
  
• Is low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt (sodium) and added sugars.

Mix It Up

Eating a nutritious diet does not have to be boring or complicated.  Try these tips:

• Choose different types of fruits, including fresh, frozen, canned, dried and juices.
  
  
• Vary the color of the veggies and beans you choose.
  
  
• If you don’t consume milk, try a lactose-free milk product or calcium-fortified foods.
  
  
• Make half of your grains whole grains.
  
  
• Vary your protein choices with more fish, beans, peas, nuts and seeds.
  
  
• Prepare meats as lean as possible by baking, broiling and grilling.

Need more reliable nutrition information?  Visit the American Dietetic Association website at www.Eatright.org.