A virtual wellness program offered by the National Institute for Fitness and Sport and provided to you through your employer.
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A virtual wellness program offered by the National Institute for Fitness and Sport and provided to you through your employer.
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2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans
The food and physical activity choices you make every day can greatly affect your health...today, tomorrow, and in the future. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans have been slightly revamped to help you make healthier choices, reduce your risk of many chronic diseases, and increase your chances of a longer, healthier life. As you will soon read, the recommendations are not much different from those seen in the past. Make these steps today to ensure a long and healthy life!
Make Smart Choices from Every Food Group
Change your food selections every day by eating a variety of nutrient-packed foods. Emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat milk and milk products. Include lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts, and consume foods that are low in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, salt (sodium), and added sugars. Keeping your daily calorie level within your calorie needs will help you to achieve an optimal weight.
Find Your Balance between Food and Physical Activity
Making time for physical activity is just as important as eating a healthy diet. Plan to be physically active for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week for weight maintenance. If you are under the age of 18 or are an adult who desires to lose weight, strive to achieve 60 minutes of physical activity every day.
Know the Facts and Use the Food Label
Checking the Nutrition Facts label on most packaged foods can help you determine its nutritional value. Make sure to know the serving size recommendations before looking at calories, fat, etc. The nutrient claim on the front of the box can be very misleading; thus, utilize the Nutrition Facts label to gain a better understanding of exactly what you are consuming.
Play it Safe with Food
Knowing how to prepare, handle, and store foods safely is key in keeping your family safe from food-borne illness. Make sure to clean hands often and follow preparation instructions. Use clean, separate cutting boards for raw and cooked foods, and cook dishes to the appropriate temperature before serving.
Drink Alcohol in Moderation
Moderate drinking means up to one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men. Twelve ounces of regular beer, five ounces of wine, or 1 1/2 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits count as a drink. Remember that alcoholic beverages may contain many calories, but are very low in nutritional value.
For more information about these new guidelines, visit: |
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