March is National Nutrition Month

The month is set aside annually by the American Dietetic Association to encourage all Americans to take the first step toward making healthful food and physical activity choices, says Dr. Evelyn Crayton, a registered dietitian and a foods and nutrition specialist with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

This year's theme is good advice for both adults and children. Children learn by example, so it is important that their parents set good examples for them by eating more healthfully and by staying physically active. Studies show that incorporating good nutrition at an early age has positive effects on your short- and long-term health. You feel better, have more energy, and maintain weight better. Eating healthy foods and doing regular physical activity fuel each other. The more healthy food you eat, the more energy you have, and the more you'll want to eat the foods that provide you with all the important nutrients your body needs.

All weight management programs should include training in lifestyle modification. Gradually change to a healthful eating style with increased intake of whole grains, fruits and vegetables. And slowly increase physical activity to at least 30 minutes a day. If you do, great things will happen.

Taking the first step toward making healthful choices can be made easy if you enlist help from friends and family, says Crayton.

"Make it a family project. Encourage children to help in meal planning and preparation. Look through cookbooks together and try new recipes. Make meals a family affair and enjoy your time together."

The same is true for physical activities. Learn a new sport, ride bikes or take a long walk after dinner to help burn calories. It's a great time to talk or get rid of the stress from the day.

Extend National Nutrition Month beyond March, and keep you and your family healthy all year long.

SOURCE: Dr. Evelyn Crayton, Extension Foods and Nutrition Specialist, Alabama Cooperative Extension System (334) 844-2224