Healthy Lifestyle involves many choices including a balanced diet & a healthy eating plan. How do you choose a healthy eating plan? According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2015 – 2020 you should:
- Emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains & fat free or low-fat milk & milk products
- Include lean meats, poultry fish, beans, eggs & nuts
- Avoid saturated fats, trans fats, salt & added sugars
- Stay within your daily caloric needs
Assessing your Weight
High body fat can lead to weight related diseases & other health issues. Underweight can put a person at risk for health issues also. Body Mass Index (BMI) & weight circumference are two measures used as screening tools to estimate weight status. A trained healthcare provider should be consulted to determine your optimal BMI.
Childhood Obesity
Childhood obesity is considered a health problem on many levels. Children can be bullied or teased. They may suffer from social isolation & lower self-esteem. The effect of this can last into adulthood. Children with obesity are at higher risk for developing chronic health conditions & diseases such as, sleep apnea, joint problems & Type 2 diabetes.
Eight (8) Healthy Eating Goals
- Make half your plate fruits & vegetables – choose red, orange & dark green vegetables. The more colorful your plate the more likely you are to get vitamins, minerals & fiber your body needs to be healthy.
- Make half the grains you eat whole grain. Look for whole wheat, brown rice, bulgur, oatmeal, rolled oats, quinoa & wild rice.
- Switch to fat free or low fat
- Choose a variety of lean protein foods
- Compare sodium in food. READ FOOD LABELS
- Drink water instead of sugary drinks
- Eat some seafood
- Cut back of solid fats
For More Information go to:
www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/index.htm
www.Nutrition.gov
www.choosemyplate.gov