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Celebrate National Nutrition Month!
Annually, since 1980, March has been the designated month for spreading the word about good nutrition. This year's theme is "Eat Right", and dietitians everywhere are celebrating with creative and targeted nutrition education activities.
One year, dressed as a red chili pepper, I cavorted through Chicago's Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum with my good friend, herself dressed as a bunch of purple grapes, to spread the word of good nutrition to hundreds of children. Those of you who know me personally are familiar with my passion for my profession, but this perhaps provides an entirely new perspective for you.
I find it serendipitous that March is also when I celebrate my birthday - I guess you could say that I was born to be a dietitian. I know; bad joke. Regardless, I am absolutely in love with the work that I'm privileged to do, so please indulge me as I engage in a little targeted nutrition education in honor of this month's celebration.
3 tips to help you "EAT RIGHT" through March and beyond!
1. EAT MORE: People tend to place too much focus (and guilt) on foods that they "shouldn't" eat. Shift the focus to foods that you SHOULD eat, and find ways to eat more of them. For example: how many different vegetable colors grace your plate in a week? Try to add more red, orange, yellow, purple, and green - you'll increase vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, not to mention taste. Besides, when it comes to food, including is much more positive than depriving and obsessing, don't you think?
2. EAT LESS: As we age we naturally lose muscle mass, our metabolism slows, and we need fewer calories. But, we have some control. I'll save the thousands of reasons why you should be lifting weights (especially my female readers) for later. For now, focus on how much food you put on your plate. Notice I'm not suggesting that you CUT FOODS OUT (see #1 above). If you feel you eat the same way that you always have, yet you battle with your favorite jeans, try this; for 1 entire week, serve your meal on a plate that measures 7 1/2 - 9 inches in diameter and add an enormous side salad. Surprise!
3. EAT PLANTS: A study released just this week identified that an increased risk of dying from cardiovascular disease or cancer is associated with daily red meat consumption. With everyone watching food budgets more closely, cutting back on the meat and building meals around fruits, vegetables, dried beans, and whole grains is good for your health AND your wallet! |
