Five simple tips for healthy eating

National Nutrition Month, observed every March, started in 1973 as National Nutrition Week and became a month-long observance in 1980. This year's theme, Celebrate a World of Flavors, embraces cultures and cuisines from around the world. Experiencing foods from different nations and cultures is a tasty way to nourish ourselves and appreciate our diversity.

Here are some healthy eating tips from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to try during National Nutrition Month and all year long.

1. Make half your plate fruits and vegetables. Fruits and veggies add not only color, flavor, and texture to your plate but vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber as well. Make 2 cups of fruit and 2 ½ cups of vegetables your daily goal.
2. Consult with a registered dietitian. A registered dietitian can provide sound, easy-to-follow personalized nutrition advice to help you lose weight, lower your health risks, or manage a chronic condition. All three medical options (PPO, EPO, and HDHP) cover consultations with a network registered dietician.
3. Get cooking. Preparing foods at home can be healthy, rewarding, and cost-effective. Incorporate your favorite cultural foods or traditions and introduce yourself to new foods by trying recipes from around the world.
4. Explore new foods and flavors. Add more nutrition and eating pleasure by expanding your range of food choices. When shopping, make it a point to select a fruit, vegetable, or whole grain that is new to you or your family.
5. Reduce food waste. Check out what foods you have on hand before stocking up at the grocery store. Plan meals based on leftovers and only buy perishable foods you will use or freeze within a couple of days. Managing these food resources at home can help save nutrients and money.

Call to Health challenges to help with good nutrition

In observance of National Nutrition Month, Call to Health is offering these limited-time challenges through March 31, to help with healthy eating. Log on to the Call to Health website today and join them by selecting the challenge tile and clicking GET STARTED.

• Wake Up to Health: Start your day by eating a healthy breakfast at least three times per week. (50 points per week)
• Snacks for Better Sleep: Choose foods that promote good sleep if you’re craving a bedtime snack. (25 points per week)
• National Nutrition Month: Learn about how to take steps toward good nutrition. (15 points)
• Take a Walk to Combat Cravings: Instead of reaching for a snack, try taking a walk instead. (25 points per week)

To complete the challenge and receive your points, log on, select the challenge tile, click the completion date(s), and then click + TRACK. Be sure to track the required number of days for that challenge; for example, for some challenges you need to do an activity more than one day a week. And, be sure to log on to the site weekly so you don’t miss the opportunity to participate and earn Call to Health points.

Source: eatright.org

*Call to Health is available to employees and their spouses with medical coverage through the Board of Pensions; it is not available to members enrolled in Triple-S, GeoBlue, or the Medicare Supplement Plan.