Good nutrition is important for a healthy lifestyle

“Healthy eating helps you get the most out of life,” said Janice Hermann, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension services nutrition education specialist.  “A healthy lifestyle is the key to looking good, feeling great and being your best at work and play.”

A healthy eating plan is the key to good nutrition.

Individual needs and preferences help determine your personal food choices, said Hermann.  A person needs to match food choices to fit their lifestyle and individual requirements, choosing enough to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Be sure to pursue variety in planning your choices.

Hermann suggests expanding the range of choices and to try new tastes among the food groups.  When eating a variety of foods one can receive optimal nutrition and increase the delightful aspects of eating.

A good eating plan emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat milk products, lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts. It is also low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt and added sugars.

Here are some tips to “step up” nutrition and health in your life:

• Make smart choices from every food group. Eat a variety of nutrient-packed foods to give your body the balanced nutrition it needs.
• Get the most nutrition out of your calories. Foods packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients will allow your body to receive the most nutritionally rich foods from each food group but  are lower in calories.
• Find your balance between food and physical activity. Physical activity on a regular basis is important to your overall health and fitness. In addition, it helps control body weight, promotes a feeling of well-being and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

According to the American Dietetic Association a person should be physically active for at least 30 minutes most days of the week. For greater health benefits and to assist in controlling body weight, one should opt for 60 minutes a day. Teenagers and children should be physically active for 60 minutes most or every day.

“Develop an eating plan for lifelong health,” Hermann said. “Many individuals adopt the latest food fad instead of focusing on overall health. It is important to stay with the basics of healthy eating and physical activity for a healthy lifestyle.”

###

Oklahoma State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, State and Local Governments Cooperating: The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability, or status as a veteran, and is an equal opportunity employer.

Katie L. Reim
Communications Specialist
OSU AG Communication Services
140 Printing Services Building
Stillwater, OK 74078
(405) 744-6792
Katie.reim@okstate.edu