Why Nutrition Month Should Matter to You
Historically, March was seen as the start of the new year mostly because of the improving weather, more daylight hours and the commencement of the growing season. Also, March is one of the busiest months of the year for religious festivals and events.
More practically, for most Canadians, it signifies the first time in months we can consider venturing outside without having to layer up. And the improving weather means we can see the first shoots of spring pushing through. The flower most associated with March is the daffodil as it signifies rebirth, new beginnings and friendship.
Taking the theme of new, we want to look at March as an opportunity to review the importance of diet. So here, is what March could mean for you:
Menu Most people say they can always do better when it comes to their diet but making improvements are not always easy. Starting this April, Heart to Home Meals will be providing new diet codes that will be clearer and easier to understand. The menu will have meals with symbols that indicate: Carb Control, Protein Assist and Low Saturated Fat.
Active A good diet gives you more energy allowing you to be more active. Both feed off each other and contribute towards improving your personal wellness.
Registered Dietitian It is very easy to fall into the trap of believing that to improve your diet all you need to do is reduce your food intake. Unfortunately, our bodies require different types of food as we age to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Exploring all your options and gaining the best advice cannot be satisfied by going online. When possible, seek out an expert to make smart food selections.
Choice No one chooses to get old or welcomes the need for dietary changes but neither have to be anything more than lifestyle adjustments. By actively embracing a course that offers you control over your choices you will feel the benefits physically and emotionally.
Health Remaining in good health is not a singular activity, you will need guidance modifying your diet, along with exercise, sleep and, not to be forgotten, enthusiasm. Realising what is important and cherishing those things can go a long way.
March is National Nutrition Month and this year’s campaign wants to reinforce the message: Unlock the potential of food. Heart to Home Meals Consultant Dietitian, Andrea Olynyk says, “Eating is more than just satisfying your appetite.” She encourages people to understand that diet is a very individualised procedure and what works for one person does not necessarily mean it is okay for someone else.
During this month, expect to hear a lot about the dos and don’ts of dietary intake. One issue always at the forefront is the push for low-sodium foods. But Andrea suggests taking a less unequivocal approach, “There is no question we are eating too much sodium, but unless you have a sodium-related health issue (e.g. high blood pressure) there are lots of ways to reduce your intake and still eat good tasting foods that contains sodium.” Her advice includes avoid looking at one type of food in isolation but assess your total diet and lifestyle to get a better understanding of your needs. “Most of us have to learn how to eat and that needs to be more than avoiding certain foods. People need to focus on a lot more than one item to be healthy.”
Dietitians are concerned about the consequences when someone tries to deprive themselves of a food – too often it can lead to binge-eating, food disorders and malnutrition.
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While the publicity surrounding National Nutrition Month will help raise awareness about eating well, Andrea stresses the need to look at healthy eating as a part of lifestyle commitment.
And while it will not generate the headlines of National Nutrition Month, March is also National Frozen Food Month. Those products could play an important role in those wanting to spring forward with an improved diet for 2019 and beyond.
You can learn more about our service and request a complimentary men by visiting www.hearttohomemeals.ca