March marked International Nutrition month. But while March is over, our commitment to healthy dietary habits as a lifestyle choice,should remain with us all our lives.
We all know that nutrition is the study of food at work in our bodies. In fact nutrition is the building blocks of life.Good nutrition means getting the right amount of nutrients from healthy foods in the right combinations.
Nutrition is at work during our entire life-cycle — from infancy to adolescence, adulthood to senior years — and it can be the antidote for many of today’s common problems, such as stress, pollution, sexual vitality, and disease prevention.
A poor diet can have a serious impact on health, and rob you of your freedom. We need to be reminded every day, and every month, to make the right choices, and achieve the right balance of nutrients.
ENJOY THE TASTE OF EATING RIGHT
How can you enjoy the ‘taste of eating right’?Well, the first step toward healthier eating is to prepare and enjoy more meals at home.Restaurant meals may look attractive and appetizing, but they can be loaded with calories, contributing to poor weight control. They are high in saturated fats, sodium and sugar.
Well-nourished and active children, grow, develop, and learn better. Good nutrition also helps ensures a healthy pregnancy and a successful breast-feeding experience. Healthy eating helps adults and seniors feel their best, become more productive, and lower their risk for a variety of conditions.
The Healthy Plate
This starts with choosing a small plate, and filling half of it with vegetables and fruits, including antioxidant-rich berries, leafy greens and dark orange vegetables.Be sure to opt for vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and spinach, and steam for a quick, convenient and nutrient-rich base for your meal.
Add a protein to your plate– consider seafood, skinless poultry, and lean meats, as well as meatless options, including reduced fat cheese, nuts and nut butters, seeds, beans and soy products, tofu and tempeh. To complete your meal, include a small portion of a whole-grain or a starchy vegetable to fill about a quarter of your plate. Consider options such as brown rice, barley, bulgur, corn, green peas, potatoes and winter squash. These foods are excellent sources of B-vitamins as well as dietary fiber.
World oral health day was also celebrated in March, and the announcement was made that three out of four children were found to have dental caries. The relationship between food and dental caries isstrong. A diet rich in sugar and starch increases the risk of tooth decay, especially those foods that are sticky, because they are more likely to remain on the surface of the teeth.Eat a nutritious and balanced diet that is rich in calcium and phosphorus, to help strengthen teeth development. Limiting snacks is essential, so be sure to avoid carbohydrates, candy, caramels and chips, as well as sweetened juices and soda drinks.
By Annie John Kalarickal
