Valley View Elementary PTA

 Health and Safety

By Cindy Iyoob, MS,RD,LD

 

          MARCH IS NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH!!
 

Every year in the month of March the American Dietetics Association sponsors a nutrition education and information campaign known as "National Nutrition
Month".  It is designed to educate, instruct, motivate, and focus attention on making informed food choices and develop proper eating habits and physical activity habits, as well. 
 

As a registered dietitian myself, National Nutrition Month is my chance to encourage and teach optimal nutrition to all.  So, here are 5 steps to becoming a healthier you:
 1)EAT MORE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES--Research shows that eating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables provides huge benefits, including protection against cancer, heart disease, and the effects of aging.

 

2)EAT MORE FIBER--Include more whole grains (like whole grain wheat bread instead of white), consume fruits and veggies with the skin.  Fiber will keep you full and help lower your risk of cancer.
 

3)GO NATURAL--Choosing organic foods means you will be eating foods without pesticides which have been proven toxic in the human body and are linked to cancer.

 

4)SUPERFOODS--NOT SUPERSIZE!!--Think blueberries, broccoli,salmon, walnuts, even dark chocolate, will fight against cancer and boost the immune system.  Try to control portion sizes; instead of 3 large meals/day, try 5-6 smaller meals to help maintain hunger and blood sugar levels.
 

5)CURB YOUR SWEET TOOTH--Chocolate, cake, pies, cookies, ice cream or any other comfort foods you love are almost devoid of nutrients.  Always remember, eat these foods in moderation.
 

Taking these small steps are sure to make anyone's eating habits more positive, as well as, more healthy!