CHRISTUS Health is recognizing National Nutrition Month in March, urging people to adopt healthy eating habits that can have big payoffs in their overall health.
National Nutrition Month was started 51 years ago by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to help people develop healthful eating and physical activity habits.
Jennifer Callicoatte, clinical nutrition manager with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System, recommends experimenting with different cooking styles as an avenue to better health.
“If raw or fresh vegetables are not your favorite, try roasting in the oven with a little bit of olive oil to completely change the texture and flavor,” she said. “If you haven’t tried a certain food item in a while, retry it and you may find that you like it much better than you remembered.”
Callicoatte also encourages individuals to try a new fruit or vegetable this month.
“You may find a new favorite,” she said.
Palmer Grau, dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist with CHRISTUS Highland in Shreveport, said another simple way to a healthier lifestyle change is to swap sugar-sweetened beverages for water or other calorie-free beverages.
“This change may help with weight loss or control blood sugars if needed,” she said. “Label reading and portion control awareness is key to achieving nutrition goals.”
As the weather gets warmer, Callicoatte said there are more opportunities to get outside and exercise.
“I would suggest asking a family member or friend to go for a walk or run, depending on what you enjoy,” she said. “Try new group sports and if you are on the go with children’s sports, take the opportunity to walk the track while the kids are practicing.”
Changing eating choices and behaviors do not happen overnight, Callicoatte said.
“Change one thing at a time so that you feel good about your choices and meeting your goal,” she said.
To learn more about nutrition with CHRISTUS Health, visit our website, christushealth.org.