At some point we have all learned ways to improve the way we eat for better health, but for many reasons some people are still contemplating – but haven’t yet committed to – making better lifestyle choices.
In a recent International Food Information Council Food & Health survey [1] shoppers reported buying healthier products in an effort to achieve balanced nutrition and a healthy diet. However, according to the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention [2]and Health Promotion , more than two out of three adults admit they don’t have more than two servings of fruits or vegetables per day. It appears that while a percentage of the population is making the connection that good food equals good health, others are not.
The most common reasons I hear are:
If you can relate to these reasons, now is the time to learn that healthy eating should involve enjoying good-tasting foods that meet your food preferences, lifestyles, cultural and ethnic traditions, health concerns and, of course, taste. This is why, during National Nutrition Month, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics [3] is encouraging everyone to “Eat Right, Your Way, Every Day.”
Every March the organization celebrates National Nutrition Month as a way of reminding Americans about the importance of getting proper proper nutrition through healthier food choices.
There is a misconception that healthy food has no taste or that eating healthfully means giving up your favorite food needs. Throughout the month, Chef Richard (link to his blog) will be featuring some delicious, easy-to-make recipes for you to try. Fresh ingredients, like vegetables, fruits and herbs, enhance the flavors in any dish. Learning how to prepare fresh foods is a great start to healthier eating habits.
Another point to remember is that there is no one-size-fits-all way to eat – no way that is right for everyone – which is why “diets” don’t work in the long term. Regardless of what your traditions are, what your taste buds tell you or how busy your lifestyle is, there are ways to make better food choices.
Throughout the month, I challenge you rethink your reasons for not making better food choices. What’s stopping you? Healthier choices can fit into any type of lifestyle. What healthier choices will you commit to making this month?
Visit www.eatright.org/nnm [4] for more information.
About Natalie Castro-Romero, M.S., R.D., LDN
Natalie Castro-Romero is the Chief Wellness Dietitian for corporate wellness at Baptist Health South Florida. She earned her bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from Florida International University. She completed her master’s degree in nutrition and exercise science at the State University of New York, University at Buffalo. Ms. Romero is certified in adult weight management and works passionately to improve the health of both adults and children. Her clinical experience includes working with patients suffering from gastrointestinal disorders and critically ill patients in intensive care. In addition, she has conducted research on eating behaviors and pediatric obesity. Her research has been published in several peer-reviewed medical journals.