News Release
For Immediate Release: March 10, 2009
Contact Person: Diane Lee, Public Information Officer, 301-334-7730
March is National Nutrition Month
National Nutrition Month ® is a nutrition education and information campaign created annually in March by the American Dietetic Association (ADA). Initiated in March 1973 as a week-long event, “National Nutrition Week” became a month-long observance in 1980 in response to growing public interest in nutrition. Over the years, National Nutrition Month ® has remained true to its original purpose. The campaign focuses attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits and position ADA members (registered dietitians and dietetic technicians) as the authorities in nutrition.
This year's theme is “eat right.” Eating right and staying fit are important no matter what your age. Help yourself to feel your best by making healthy food choices and being physically active every day.
Make Your Calories Count. Think nutrient-rich rather than “good” or “bad” foods. The majority of your food choices should be packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients – and lower in calories. Making smart food choices can help you stay healthy, manage your weight and be physically active.
Focus on Variety. Eat a variety of foods from all the food groups to get the nutrients your body needs. Fruits and vegetables can be fresh, frozen or canned. Include more dark green vegetables such as leafy greens and broccoli and orange vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes. Vary your protein choices with more fish, beans and peas. And, eat at least 3 ounces of whole grain cereals, breads, crackers, rice or pasta every day.
Know Your Fats. Look for foods low in saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol to help reduce the risk of heart disease. Most of the fats you eat should be monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Check the Nutrition Facts panel on food labels for total fat and saturated fat.
Physical Activity for Fitness and Health. 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. You can break up your physical activity into 10 minute sessions throughout the day. If you are currently inactive, start with a few minutes of activity such as walking. Then gradually increase the minutes as you become stronger.
Information above is from the American Dietetic Association website. For more information go to www.eatright.org .
Click Here to access nutrition games on the American Dietetic Association website.