TALLAHASSEE, Fla. --- When it comes to nutrition, state and local programs say that they are no longer using a one-size-fits-all philosophy.
The new thought process is part of a campaign themed "Eat right, your way, everyday" created as part of the 40th anniversary of The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics National Nutrition Month. The Women, Infants and Children Supplemental Food Program (WIC) at the Florida Department of Health, Leon County Health Department, is working to get this new message out in Leon, Franklin, Jefferson, Madison, Taylor and Wakulla counties.
The campaign centers on the fact that the path to healthy eating is varied. Nutrition experts agree that finding one style depends on a number of factors, including budget, culture, lifestyle, personal schedules and nutrition needs for medical conditions. By taking these issues into account, people can develop a way of eating that works for them. The Leon County WIC program provides food and education resources to help individuals accomplish this goal of a healthy diet.
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, developed by the Departments of Health and Human Services and Agriculture, are the basic components of a healthy diet. One message that has not changed is the need to balance calories with physical activity. Most calories should come from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low fat dairy and seafood and lean meats. Refined grains, saturated fat, trans-fat and added sugars should be decreased.
Successful nutrition plans embrace the idea that eating right can be a part of everyday life. Each person has unique circumstances that must be addressed to have a healthy eating plan. WIC counselors urge people to be creative in discovering new ways to meet their nutritional needs through food choices based on the national guidelines.
For more information, please visit www.eatright.org or call the Leon County WIC program at -850-606-8300.
