Since the 1970s, the American
Dietetic Association (ADA)
has been highlighting the benefits of a healthy diet by forming National
Nutrition Month. The theme for this year is "Nutrition from the Ground Up,"
which focuses on the significance of making educated food choices and creating
healthy eating and physical activity practices.
Some Ways to
Celebrate
There are many ways to celebrate this month, especially when
you involve friends, family, and/or coworkers. You could organize a "healthy
recipe" contest and award prizes, or sponsor a canned food drive. If alone in
your health endeavors, you could attempt "eating the rainbow," which focuses on
eating fruits and vegetables from all colors. Also, being aware of how long
your downtime is (time you are not active), and trying to get off the couch
during breaks are also ways to improve overall health.
The Cynics
Obesity rates have risen in the past decades in spite of the
ADA's attempts
to help us stay healthy. There are many contributing factors, including the
budget difference between the food industry versus health groups, and the high
price of consulting with dietitians. There is a huge amount of money that goes
into marketing for the food industry. Healthy eating commercials are scarce
compared to the numerous fast food and junk food commercials. Most people can't
afford to visit a dietician for healthy nutrition guidelines and insurance
doesn't cover it until you fall ill.
Also, sometimes sponsorships play a role in what ADA advocates. A
dietitian will tell you to cut soda and drink more water to lose weight. However,
because the ADA
is sponsored by Coca Cola and Pepsi, you get the message about "consuming in
moderation."
Do you think that ADA
should take a firmer stand in diet-related issues? Are you committed to
improving your nutrition this month? What changes will you make to improve your
health?
Resources:
http://www.eatright.org/nnm/
http://www.fooducate.com/blog/2010/03/01/march-is-national-nutrition-month-why-doesnt-it-help/
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