Food and Fitness Fundamentals
March is National Nutrition Month! In 1973, The American Dietetic Association created a week-long event to educate the public on nutrition awareness. In 1980, this event turned into a month-long campaign in response to the increased interest Americans have shown toward improving their health, eating habits and lifestyles.
Eat Right with Color is this year’s theme to encourage individuals to make informed, educated decisions when consuming meals by adding a wide span of color to their diet. Eat Right with Color suggests incorporating a variety of colorful fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein and dairy products into every meal, every day. This total diet approach helps ensure nutrient-dense food selections, which in turn provides meals filled with an abundance of vitamins, minerals and overall good nutrition.
Action Plan for Incorporating Change:
1. Take an accurate look at your current eating habits and lifestyle. Food records are a good way to see exactly what your actual intake is for portion size, food selections, as well as documenting your physical activity.
2. Develop both long and short term goals. It is crucial these that these are realistic as well as obtainable.
3. Choose only one or two behavioral changes at a time to avoid being overwhelmed. Once these are a comfortable and regular daily routine, you can then initiate a new set of goals.
Consider using “the rainbow” when making your food and lifestyle choices. Implementing small incremental behavioral changes over time helps significantly with long term compliance. With time and consistency, these minor changes soon become new habits and represent a part of your daily routine. Remember variety is the spice of life. “Eat with Color” every meal, every day, make informed food choices, and participate in regular physical activity.
For more information about how to “Eat Right with Color”, visit ADA’s National Nutrition Month website, or contact the Nutrition Services Department at The Corvallis Clinic at 541- 754-1370
