March is Nutrition Month! Unlock the Potential of Food

Tips for Unlocking the Potential of Food include:             

Power to fuel: Food gives us the energy to get through each day. Eat well and stay energized by including nutritious snacks as part of the day’s plan. Look for snacks that will count towards your recommended number of food guide servings. Choosing vegetables and fruits as a snack are a great way to get the 7 to 10 recommended servings for adults. Canadians often fall short in eating enough vegetables and fruits so including them as snacks is a great way to get what you need for the day.

Power to discover: Healthy eating habits can be nurtured in children by teaching them to shop and cook. Children will appreciate the meal more and learn important life skills when they are included in the planning and preparing of meals. It's a great way to pass along cooking skills and learn about traditional or cultural foods. Find recipe ideas at Cookspiration® and AHS Healthy Eating Starts Here.

Power to prevent: Food can help prevent chronic diseases like cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Eating healthy foods builds a healthy body and is important for maintaining a healthy body weight. Healthy eating means eating a variety of foods and choosing them wisely. Select a variety of foods from all food groups such as fruit, vegetables, dairy and whole grains.

Power to heal: Food can promote healing by improving blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and weight. Food nourishes the body. Dietitians are the experts in nutrition and can help with special dietary needs; they are available for free appointments through Alberta Healthy Living Program.

Power to bring us together: Food can have many benefits when it brings families and friends together. Having meals regularly together as a family is linked to better nutrient intake and lifestyle habits in children and teenagers. Experience a variety of food and take the time to eat and savour every bite. Enjoy a potluck with friends. Celebrate special events with family and friends of all ages.

Eating well adds enjoyment and quality of life!

 

If you are interested in promoting or taking part in this year’s campaign, feel free to visit the Dietitians of Canada website at www.NutritionMonth2018.ca.

Visit Dairy Nutrition for this year’s Nutrition Month Posters. Posters and information are available in both English and French.

For more healthy eating resources visit healthyeatingstartshere.ca 

 

See attached for Fact Sheets!