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