HOUGHTON -- March is deemed National Nutrition Month by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), 30 percent of adults in this state are overweight, and this year’s theme is “Get Your Plate in Shape.”
“And there are many take home messages for ‘Get Your Plate in Shape’ this year, some of which include making your plate half full with fruits and vegetables, aiming for at least half of your grains to come from whole grain sources,” said Clinical Dietitian Tara Lassila.
Choosing fat-free or low-fat dairy products and varying your protein choices are also recommended. Experts say one of the best ways to begin eating healthy is to start at the source where most people buy their food.
When you make that trip to the grocery store, the number one rule is do not shop on an empty stomach to avoid excessive spending, and when it comes to healthy choices, look for a variety. Instead of buying white potatoes, try sweet potatoes which contain much more nutrients.
Experts also recommend staying away from sugary things like soda and candy and replacing them with water or a healthier snack. Lassila says fruits and vegetables are also very important when comes to eating healthy because they are nutrient dense foods, and the more colorful foods the better.
“Eating healthy is important to giving your body the energy it needs and the nutrients it needs to run optimally,” Lassila said.
In order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, exercise is also important. Experts say a combination of healthy food and regular exercise can help reduce your risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
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