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March is National
Nutritional Month
Auburn,
March 11, 2003
---March is National Nutrition Month.
Sponsored by the National Dietetic Association, the monthlong
observance began in 1980 in response to growing public interest in
nutrition..
This
year’s theme is “Healthy Eating, Healthy You.” The theme focuses on
the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound
eating and physical activity habits.
“Healthy living helps you get the most out of life, and a healthy
lifestyle is the key to looking good, feeling great, and being your
best at work and play,” says Dr. Evelyn Crayton, an Extension foods
and nutrition specialist and registered dietitian. “It all starts
with a healthy eating plan.”
Individual needs and preferences determine your personal food
choices. It’s important to match your food choices to your
lifestyle and individual requirements, choosing enough to achieve
and maintain a healthy weight.
Variety is the key, says Crayton. Expand your range of choices and
explore new tastes, within and among food groups. Eating a wide
variety of foods not only promotes optimal nutrition, it provides
the pleasurable aspects of eating.
Moderation should be your goal. You decide how much and how often
you eat. Healthy eating doesn’t mean feeling deprived or guilty.
Look at the big picture. Look at what you eat over several days –
not just one day or one meal.
Another important measure is exercise. Develop a personal fitness
plan that fits your lifestyle. Again, variety is the key, says
Crayton. “Find a variety of activities you enjoy. You don’t need
expensive equipment or complicated fitness programs.”
The
“buddy system” helps a lot too. Most people are more motivated to
go exercise if someone will go with them. The “buddy system” also
helps you be more accountable about your exercise and your diet.
Take
time this month to pay close attention to your diet and exercise.
Reevaluate your lifestyle and make the necessary changes. You’ll be
glad you did. It could be the start of a new, healthier you.
Source: Dr. Evelyn Crayton,
Extension Foods and Nutrition Specialist and Registered Dietitian,
Alabama Cooperative Extension System, (334) 844-2224
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