March is National Nutrition Month®. Now is the opportune time to reevaluate and clean up our diets to achieve the numerous benefits of healthy eating.
This year’s theme, “Go Further with Food,” goes beyond emphasizing the nutritional benefits of healthy eating. The campaign’s second focus is the reduction of food loss, which may be achieved through the management of food resources at home.
By making informed food choices, we can develop sound eating and physical activity habits and cut down on food waste.
Steps to Saving Nutrients (and Money):
1. Incorporate a healthy sampling of nutritious foods from all the food groups on a regular basis.
2. Consider the foods that you already have on hand before purchasing more to limit food waste.
3. Purchase food in limited quantities – generally, enough to be eaten or frozen within a few days. Plan to use leftovers later in the week.
4. Keep an eye on portion sizes, which have grown dramatically in the past several years. Quiz yourself on Portion Distortion to see how today’s portions compare to those available 20 years ago.
5. Practice good food safety practices in every step of food preparation.
6. Discover physical activities that you enjoy, and try to be active most days of the week. Mix it up! Try a free group exercise class, such as yoga, HIIT or functional training. If you prefer the gym, be sure to check out GW’s faculty/staff fitness discounts.
7. Consider consulting with a registered dietitian nutritionist for easy-to-follow, personalized nutrition advice that agrees with your lifestyle, preferences and health needs.
UPCOMING EVENT: Staying Healthy with the Season – Spring Reset
March 19, 2018 | 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. | Marvin Center 307
You’ve heard about eating seasonally, but what does it really mean? What are the benefits to your health, the planet and your wallet? As we prepare for spring, learn what foods we should incorporate into our diets to reap nature’s rewards. Join renowned cooking consultant and chef Debbie Amster for an eye-opening journey through nutrition and mindful eating.
