"Tell me what you eat and I will tell you what you are." ~ Anthelme Brillat-Savarin
Want to be healthy? Then you need to EAT healthy.
Want to be fit? Then you need to EAT fit.
March is National Nutrition Month. This is a nutrition education and information campaign created annually in March by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Stay tuned in to the blog for posts about what and how to eat to make the most of your workouts and to encourage your good health. This year's theme is "Get Your Plate in Shape."
Here are some basic tips to get you started on your journey to nutrition success this month:
1. Make half your plate fruits and vegetables.
Be sure to eat fresh or frozen whenever possible and include lots of dark green vegetables to your daily diet. If you opt for canned fruit, steer clear of added sugar and high fructose corn syrup. While not ideal, canned veggies should be packed in water with no added salt.
2. Make at least half your grains whole.
Read your nutrition labels! Just because the product looks brown doesn't mean that it's good for you. Manufacturers regularly add coloring to make their products look more healthy and appealing. The nutrition label should say "100% whole grain" and the grain should be listed first on the label.
3. Monitor your milk intake.
If you include dairy in your diet, choose fat-free or low-fat milk, or calcium fortified milk alternatives like soy or almond.
4. Eat lean protein.
Choose from a variety of sources each week, including beans, nuts, poultry, seafood and eggs.
5. Cut back on sodium and empty calories from solid fats and added sugars.
The daily recommendation for sodium less than 2300 mg per day. That's less than 1 tsp per day! Again, read your food labels and monitor the amounts. Season your food with herbs and spices. Choose water instead of flavored beverages and sodas. Keep in mind that "sugar-free" beverages will still cause your body to react as though it received sugar, which is not good for your waistline or your health. Choose healthy fats like those found in avocados and olive oil.
Be sure to leave us a comment about your diet or to ask any questions you may have. We're here to help!
To YOUR fitness success!
