March is one of my favorite months for a couple of reasons. I love springs’ warmer temperatures and the chance to get out and enjoy a walk or bike ride. I also look forward to sharing my passion about healthy eating during March because it is noted as National Nutrition Month. This year’s campaign focuses on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. In addition, National Nutrition Month, created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, puts valuable and credible nutrition information at our fingertips.
The theme “Put Your Best Fork Forward” serves as a reminder that each one of us holds the tool to make healthier food choices. Making small changes during National Nutrition Month and over time, helps improve health now and into the future.
A couple of weeks ago I recorded another Extension Ed Talk with Nex-Tech. My topic was “More Plants on the Plate’ and I based the 30-minute show on the fact sheet I wrote a few years ago by the same title. Preparing for the taping I was reminded how important it is to encourage people to cover half of their plate with fruits and vegetables. A generous portion of a grain dish, preferably whole grain, and a small portion of a lean protein round out the foods to fill your nine-inch plate. Dairy or calcium rich foods should also be part of a healthy diet.
The benefits of making small changes are amazing. Nutrient dense vegetables, fruits, and whole grains are naturally low in calories and fat. They also are naturally high in fiber which can help keep your digestive system healthy. Consuming a diet featuring more plants is good for your health – today and tomorrow. Complex carbohydrates are easy to digest, and the antioxidants in plants help strengthen your body’s immune system. Many people with heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and various autoimmune diseases have been able to alleviate their symptoms by eating more whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds, and consuming fewer solid and added fats, added sugars and refined grains.
If you would like a copy of the fact sheet “More Plants on the Plate” simply drop by the Extension office or look for it on the KSRE web site. The publication number is: MF2977.
Donna Krug is the Family & Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Barton County. Contact her at 620-793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu