National Nutrition Month: Staying Healthy

While this campaign takes place in March, the Academy hopes for individuals to maintain nutrition year-round. Here are 5 ways to stay healthy this National Nutrition Month and beyond:

1. Build nutritious meals that you love. Everyone’s eating preferences, restrictions, and habits vary. Instead of following someone else’s regimen (unless it is a plan given to you by a licensed professional), create an eating plan that is nourishing and satisfying. Eat meals that you enjoy and make you feel good, you are more likely to make a habit of nutritious eating.

2. Incorporate greens into your dishes. Leafy greens are powerhouses when it comes to nutrition. According to Mind Body Green, just one cup of kale has 134% of your daily value of vitamin C, plus, they’re low in calories and high in dietary fiber which helps you feel full. Foods such as spinach, bulk choy, and other leafy greens are excellent for your health. They can be incorporated into almost anything from soups, sandwiches, stir-fries, and more. Get creative!

3. Be mindful of ingredients in your food. Next time you go grocery shopping, take a look at the nutrition labels on food packages. Try to cut down on highly-processed foods that are high in ingredients such as sugar. We recommend incorporating more groceries that are natural and provide plenty of nutrients. To get an idea of what’s inside, take a look at the ingredients list near the nutrition facts. Ingredient lists that are full of words that you cannot pronounce are more likely to contain artificial ingredients. It’s okay to indulge in sugar-y or highly-processed foods occasionally, as long as it’s in moderation.

4. Try a new workout routine, or practice one you already enjoy. While National Nutrition Month has a large focus on healthy eating plans, it also encourages regular physical activity. Exercise can positively impact your mental, physical, and social well-being. If you’re new to regular exercise, we recommend starting with light activities such as beginner’s yoga or jogging. Don’t like working out? Try it with a friend and make it your next get-together.

5. Speak with a Registered Dietician Nutritionist (RDN). RDNs can work with you and your goals to create an individualized plan that best benefits you. Consulting an RDN ensures that you are receiving proper and balanced nutrition from your meals.

6. Find the best health insurance for your needs. Health insurance is crucial, and being covered ensures that you have affordable access to a variety of healthcare services. Use a trusted insurance agency such as I & E Insurance Agency to get covered by a plan that is best for you and your loved ones.

While these tips are greatly beneficial in promoting a healthy lifestyle, there are plenty of other ways to incorporate better nutrition into your daily life. Speak with your primary care provider of a RDN before making any drastic changes to your dietary or exercise routines.

Happy National Nutrition Month! The team at I & E Insurance Agency hopes you and your loved ones are staying healthy and safe.