March is National Nutrition Month and North End Waterfront Health challenges you to eat better! Making small changes in your food and beverage choices can help you follow a healthy diet and lead to better health.
A healthy diet can help you reach and maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases (like diabetes and heart disease), and improve overall well-being. Small changes in your food and beverage choices can lead to a lifetime of health benefits. Try one or all of the following tips:
Change your drink. Make healthy beverage choices by avoiding sugary drinks like soda, lemonade, and energy drinks. Instead, try seltzer water or flavor-infused water. Water with sliced lemon or cucumber is refreshing with no added sugar. Coffee shop beverages often have added sugar and contribute to excess calorie consumption; instead of a large Latte try a small.
Change your plate. Use a smaller plate when eating meals, and fill half of it with vegetables. Using a 9-inch plate will help to limit the amount of food eaten. Eat a variety of vegetables every day, try spinach, cauliflower, kale, or asparagus.
Change your snacks. When feeling hungry between meals focus on fruit, vegetables, and nuts. Skip the chips and dip and try celery and carrot sticks with guacamole or salsa. Instead of a granola bar try a handful of almonds, walnuts, or an apple or orange.
Remember, small changes can make a big difference! Every food and beverage choice is an opportunity to move toward a healthy eating pattern.
