Whether you are carrying a few extra pounds, struggling with obesity, looking for more energy or aiming to boost your overall health, everyone can benefit from a more nutritious diet. Research tells us that although this is a serious safety concern, too often healthy eating is easier said than done. This is one of the reasons why the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is raising awareness about the importance of informed food choices and sound eating habits.
The Academy created National Nutrition Month to advance nutritional health for all Americans in March 1973, and the organization has led the charge every March since. This is for good reason. Nutrition remains a major public health and safety concern. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:
- The majority of Americans eat less than the recommended amounts of vegetables, fruits, whole-grains, dairy products and oils.
- Empty calories from added sugars and solid fats contribute to 40 percent of total daily calories for 2–18 year olds, and half of these empty calories come from soda, fruit drinks, dairy desserts, grain desserts and pizza.
- The medical care costs of obesity in the United States are staggering, reaching more than $147 billion annually.
- By 2030, it is estimated that half of all adults in the U.S. (115 million adults) will be obese.
This year the National Nutrition Month theme is “Eat Right, Bite by Bite.” The idea is that small, consistent dietary changes can create a cumulative health effect where every little bit of nutrition adds up to a healthier diet and lifestyle. Each week of the month shares a different, important focus, as shown below.
- Eating a variety of nutritious foods,
- The benefits of meal planning,
- Cooking and kitchen safety skills, and
- Consulting a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) to identify and plan for your individual needs.
The Academy is the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals, and the majority of its members are RDNs and nutrition and dietetics technicians. Campaign organizers assert that healthy foods do not have to be restrictive or overwhelming. A detailed tip sheet provides additional guidance as you plan forward to learn more.
We are your local community law firm and want you to know, at all times, we are actively looking for ways to protect your rights and keep you safe. Let us know your questions and ideas, we would love to hear from you. Further, if you or someone you know has any legal questions regarding food nutrition safety and how to be protected at all times do not wait to contact us any time, day or night, to schedule a free case evaluation.