March is designated as National Nutrition Month® by the American Dietetic Association. It’s a great time of the year to review your eating habits and learn something new about good nutrition. That’s where your Hy-Vee dietitian can help!
It’s common knowledge that a healthy lifestyle decreases many risk factors and just overall makes you feel great. Unfortunately most people have trouble figuring out what to do without planning a complete diet makeover. During National Nutrition Month, your Hy-Vee dietitians would like to give you some easy suggestions by starting with the basics, so you can start building your nutritional health from the ground up!
- Focus on fruits and veggies: Fruits and vegetables are the foods that should be eaten most often. For most people, this means more than doubling the amount of fruits and vegetables they eat daily. Try adding a serving each day to one meal and increase the amount every few weeks. Look for local items, Hy-Vee offers a wide variety of items right from the Midwest, an easy way to support your local farmers and eat healthy too. Plus, local fruits and veggies taste great!
- Make calories count: Think nutrient-rich rather than “good” or “bad” foods. Most food choices should be packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients — and be lower in calories. Be aware of portion sizes. Even low-calorie foods can add up when portions are larger than you need.
- Make the most of family mealtime: Eating meals together provides the opportunity to help children develop a healthy attitude toward food. It also enables parents to serve as role models, introduce new foods and establish a regular meal schedule.
- Keep moving: Balancing physical activity and a healthful diet is your best recipe for managing weight and promoting overall health and fitness. Set a goal to be physically active at least 30 minutes every day. Remember every little bit counts, so get out there with the entire family and build a family exercise program.
By starting slowly and giving yourself a good foundation, you too can work towards a healthier lifestyle. Contact your local Hy-Vee dietitian for more information to help you live an easier, healthier and happier life.
The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.
